Reading FC faced challenges with player exits, and Zane Monlouis’ loan move proved particularly disappointing, with him making just one appearance.
Monlouis’ minimal playing time highlights the need for Reading FC to establish better relationships with loaning clubs to ensure future success.
With the takeover still unresolved, Reading FC must strategically utilize the loan market to bolster their squad, especially in the center-back, left-back, wing, and striker positions.
League One team Reading FC experienced a particularly turbulent transfer window in January of this year.
The Royals faced significant player departures from the Select Car Leasing Stadium, including Nelson Abbey and Tom Holmes moving to Nottingham Forest and Luton Town, respectively. Although Holmes was loaned back, providing some depth in central defense, Tom McIntyre’s transfer to Portsmouth left Reading FC short in that position. The exits of promising young players Caylan Vickers and Taylan Harris also raised concerns, especially about their center-back situation.
The arrival of Zane Monlouis on loan from Arsenal was seen as a positive step, given that he had been a standout in Arsenal’s U23 team, despite not yet making his senior debut. With the Royals’ defensive struggles and Harlee Dean’s underwhelming performance, Monlouis was expected to play a key role in helping Reading FC stay in League One.
However, despite the opportunities presented by Dean’s underperformance and Holmes’ injury, Monlouis only made one senior appearance—coming on as a substitute in a challenging match against Fleetwood Town. In that game, Monlouis struggled, and his performance did not lead to further chances, even after Reading secured their League One status.
| Zane Monlouis’ 2023/24 loan spell at Reading (All competitions) | |
|---|---|
| (Sofascore statistics) | |
| Appearances | 1 |
| Starts | 0 |
| Minutes played | 12 |
| Touches | 3 |
| Clean sheets | 0 |
With only one appearance and a brief cameo in that match, Zane Monlouis’ temporary stint at the SCL Stadium was largely disappointing and failed to make a positive impact.
Reading FC must avoid repeating the mistakes of the Zane Monlouis deal.
Given the ongoing takeover situation and the club’s current embargo, many of the Royals’ free agent options are likely already secured by other teams. If the takeover is resolved soon, Reading FC may need to rely heavily on the loan market to address their needs in the center-back, left-back, wing, and striker positions. While free agents could be an option, loans might provide access to higher-quality players.
To benefit from loan players both immediately and in the future, Reading FC must establish strong relationships with loaning clubs by ensuring these players get ample game time to showcase their abilities.
While it’s uncertain if Monlouis’ unsuccessful stint has impacted their relationship with Arsenal, the Royals need to secure loan players who can make a meaningful impact in the 2024/25 season. The performance of these potential loanees will likely influence Reading FC’s success in the upcoming campaign.