Tivonge Rushesha has opened up about the mental and emotional challenges he has faced during a testing season at Reading FC.
The 23-year-old, who has struggled for game time, described the season as a personal challenge, despite being fit, healthy, and training well.
“I have full faith that my ability has no ceiling and that I can achieve all my goals I have set out,” Rushesha said.
“This season has been an incredibly testing season. I need to say that I’m so grateful that I’m fit, healthy and able and have been training really well. I’ve been surrounded by a great group and that goes a long way.”
However, the midfielder admitted the lack of playing opportunities has been frustrating. “I am so thankful for that but I’m not playing any football and anything that I do I know is a dead end. I know there’s not even any point in knocking on the door, the door doesn’t exist,” he said.
Rushesha highlighted the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect for his teammates. “It’s about respect for my teammates and myself. If I f*cked off this whole season of training and then an opportunity came and I’m not ready then there are no excuses,” he said.
The Reading player also reflected on the lessons learned during this period. “This period has taught me so much, to be grateful for the little things and cherish every moment I can and don’t let them win,” he said.
Managing media and social media has been an important part of staying balanced, Rushesha added. “I take in a lot of media which helps and also staying off social media that doesn’t help is important,” he said.
“Social media is not real life. You compare your situation to someone’s best bits. Comparing a 90 minute game to someone’s highlights. That’s what social media is and it’s wrong. Be your authentic self.”
He also acknowledged the broader context of professional football. “I’m still contracted to a club and in the current football landscape that’s not a guarantee. There are better footballers than me who are clubless right now, some of my closest friends who are some of the best footballers I’ve seen don’t have a source of income at the moment so I remember that and think ‘who am I to complain?’”
Rushesha concluded by praising the support around him. “I have the best support system that God has blessed me with,” he said.
Since joining Reading from Swansea in 2023, Rushesha has made 38 first-team appearances and continues to strive for regular game time as he reflects on both personal and professional challenges.
