Just over a month after the season came to an end, Leicester’s search for a new manager has seemingly come to an end. Marti Cifuentes and Gary Rowett both permanently took the reins last season, but to little avail. City suffered back-to-back relegations, and it came with games to spare. A nightmare campaign both on and off the pitch, now leaving the Foxes with a mammoth task of rebuilding. Despite the obstacles, the first piece of the puzzle is complete. Russell Martin has been confirmed as the new manager.
Reports reveal Russell Martin to Become Leicester Boss
Russell Martin: Confirmed
For a while, Russell Martin has been the name tipped to next take on the mantle. He hasn’t been in work since being sacked by Rangers last season, a period regarded as one of their worst managerial stints. However, he returns to England, and with a new impetus; take Leicester back to the Championship. Fabrizio Romano reports Martin will be Leicester’s head coach with the deal almost done. Meanwhile, the Telegraph also confirmed the news.
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In terms of City’s pursuit, Rene Haké was also a top candidate. The Dutchman coached at Manchester United, ironically under Ruud Van Nistelrooy during his time as interim boss. However, he wasn’t the man for the job; perhaps Martin’s experience in the EFL proved important for the rebuild. The 40-year-old spent time with MK Dons in the third tier and even took Southampton back to the Premier League. Beating a Leeds side with the likes of Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter is a feat not to be scoffed at.
The correct decision?
As with any appointment, Martin divides opinion; however, he may have been the most divisive figure Leicester could have found. Many like his style of football and can appreciate his accolades. Others become irritated by the lack of pragmatism and results. Even from a Leicester perspective, he floundered in the games against Enzo Maresca and Steve Cooper. A 4-1 and 5-0 thrashing in the Championship, before running it back in the Premier League with a 3-2 comeback. Yes, these are just three games, but it’s not the best omen when looking ahead to the future.
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In addition to the interest surrounding Martin’s style of play, it will also be intriguing to see what happens with the squad. Who stays, who goes, who makes the step up to first-team football? Like last summer, this transfer window is expected to be a busy one, with plenty of incomings and outgoings. Jeremy Monga, Ben Nelson and Abdul Fatawu have all already been linked to moves away, whilst others like Jakub Stolarczyk and Jannik Vestergaard could follow suit. It’s a fascinating period for the club, a make-or-break situation, exacerbated by the turmoil of last season. Change needs to come after such a downfall, but will it be Martin to rescue the sinking ship?
