READING have confirmed Veljko Paunovic as their new manager to replace Mark Bowen just two weeks before the start of the Championship season.
The Serbian, 43, enjoyed a long playing career at the likes of Atletico Madrid and Hannover before going into management.
Veljko Paunovic has been named as Reading’s new bossCredit: AP
Most-recently, Paunovic spent four years in charge of MLS side Chicago Fire following spells as boss of Serbia’s youth teams.
Reading owner Dai Yongge revealed his delight at the appointment.
Yongge said: “With vast experience and proven pedigree of successfully working with young up-and-coming footballer, I am confident Veljko can help take this club forward.
“This has been a process and this appointment has been made only after long, careful consideration.
“After meeting with him, we found Veljko to be an exceptional candidate who impressed us immediately.
“I am sure he is the right man for Reading Football Club.
“I’m delighted he has agreed to sign as our new manager.”
Paunovic replaces Bowen in charge, after the latter succeeded Jose Gomes in October 2019.
Bowen returns to his previous role as director of football.
Successor Paunovic hung up his boots in 2011 following a spell at US side Phildelphia Union.
Paunovic spent much of his playing career in LaLiga, including spells at Atletico Madrid and GetafeCredit: AP:Associated Press
He swifly moved into coaching, taking charge of Serbia’s Under-18s in 2012.
Paunovic later enjoyed spells in charge of Serbia’s U19s and U20s – where he won the 2015 World Cup – before landing the job at Chicago Fire in 2015.
There, the new Reading boss coached Bastian Schweinsteiger following his move from Manchester United.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
