Since Ruben Selles took over at Sheffield United, he has already made a difference that could hold them in good stead for the upcoming campaign.
The 2025/26 Championship season is less than a fortnight away, and many eyes will be on how Sheffield United perform in their new era.
COH Sports have taken over at Bramall Lane, and following the failed promotion bid last season, they decided to go in a completely new direction.
Sheffield United’s defeat against Sunderland saw Chris Wilder’s tenure come to an end soon after, with recently sacked Ruben Selles taking over following his time at Hull City.
His appointment was met with pessimism from a section of the Blades supporters, especially after the disappointment of the ownership not backing Wilder, but the Portuguese boss has already shown to be a revelation at the club.
Photo by Tony King/Getty ImagesWhat Sheffield United boss Ruben Selles has already implemented at the club
In the midst of pre-season, many clubs look to be working out their style of play, particularly in the debut season of a new boss. It would be expected that this would be the case with Ruben Selles and Sheffield United, but he has already managed to get his side ticking.
It is always worth taking pre-season with a pinch of salt, but Sheffield United’s recent pre-season clash with Chesterfield saw Selles’ side performing at a top level.
Quick and intricate play was showcased at the SMH Stadium against the Spireites after Tom Cannon bagged a goal at the end of some fantastic build-up play by the Blades.
Louie Barry also gave the Blades an extra dimension in attack, stretching the play on various occasions. The first half in particular against Chesterfield saw Sheffield United show no mercy, and that clinical edge is what is needed this season.
Photo by Tony King/Getty ImagesThe myth that Ruben Selles has already proven wrong
Many Sheffield United fans were worried that Ruben Selles may implement a defensive-minded approach this season, something that wouldn’t bode well regarding the expectations of a promotion push this season.
Last season, Hull City were the lowest goal scorers in the Championship, and whilst Selles was only with the Tigers for half a season, he still struggled to solve the team’s crisis in front of goal, although his defensive targets kept them away from League One.
The myth that Selles is unable to implement an effective attacking style of play, however, has been proven wrong already at Sheffield United. It is still early days in his tenure, but there is plenty of hope that the Blades can build on last season successfully with Selles at the helm.