Reading Football Club can confirm its decision to withdraw Reading FC U21s from the Premier League National League Cup.
Our Under 21s are already competing across four significant competitions in 2024-25, this combined with injuries and increased opportunities at first team level have led to higher-than-expected demands on the squad. The original decision to enter was made back in June – however, after considering all options and discussing with the Premier League, the club felt the right decision would be to withdraw and allow another club to participate.
The Club would like to stress the decision to withdraw was not financially motivated, but instead due to managing the workload of our U21 playing staff – many of whom may be involved at a first team level this season.
The club are proud of its Academy and rich heritage in Premier League Academy competitions – with our U21 side progressing far into Premier League 2 playoffs last season and securing a superb victory against AFC Ajax Under 21 on Tuesday evening.
We wish the Premier League and all participants the very best for the competition.