Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s dismissal as Leicester City head coach occurred ten days ago, but the search for a replacement continues. The Foxes have already completed their first week in pre-season and defeated Peterborough United just days ago. First-team coach Andy King took the reins for the game, which led to the club’s young talents being at the forefront.
The Search For Leicester City’s Next Manager Continues
Former Premier League Managers Questioned
As reported by John Percy, the East Midlands outfit is advancing in the bid to appoint a new head coach.
Former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil is one name on the shortlist, as he parted ways with Wolves last December. Similarly, Chris Wilder is also a target. The former Blades boss failed to earn promotion at the first time of asking and consequently departed ahead of this season.
Read More: What We Learnt from Leicester City’s Pre-Season Clash vs Peterborough United
Percy adds that interviews have taken place between the coaches and the club’s hierarchy. Furthermore, other candidates also spoke to ‘Top’ and Jon Rudkin, as they are hoping to get their new coach later this week.
Where Does This Leave Leicester City for The Upcoming Season
Criticism of the club’s hierarchy has been at an all-time high recently, especially following yet another relegation. Even this summer, the frustration has continued as there has been no new kit release, no players sold, and no new manager appointed.
With the likes of O’Neil and Wilder touted for the job, much of this disappointment is likely to remain. The first pre-season game against the Posh showed promising signs as the club’s academy stole the show. They pressed high, kept the ball and were energetic throughout. The patterns of play from Enzo Maresca’s time were on full display, so reverting back to a new system could be detrimental.
O Neil’s Bournemouth side in 2022/23 had the second-lowest amount of possession. Meanwhile, Wilder’s Blades had the least amount of possession in their most recent Premier League campaign. A major reason for this is the need for pragmatism due to a lack of quality. However, even last season in the Championship with one of the best squads in the league, Sheffield United were only ninth for possession.
Therefore, when appointing a manager at this stage, the club’s strengths need to be in consideration. The news also conflicts with Chairman Top’s ideal candidate, as Rob Tanner recently confirmed he prefers a coach with a similar style to Maresca. If the next manager disregards this and the golden generation, then it may lead to the club remaining in the second tier for years to come.
