Leicester City’s decline from Premier League champions to a Championship relegation battle is one of the most frightening in history. In the space of just over three years, City have fallen from European semi-finals to six-pointers with Oxford and Charlton. The club sit 22nd in the Championship and are seemingly destined for successive relegations. Whilst an overhaul at the top has finally come, will it be enough to steady a sinking ship?
Long-awaited Leicester Leadership Overhaul is Complete
Leicester Leadership: What Changed?
As announced by the club, multiple figures have assumed new roles amid a dismal 2025/26 season. The alterations have been brewing for many months, as Chief Executive Officer Susan Whelan stepped down after 15 years. In the interim, Khun Top took on the role, whilst Kamonthip Netthanomsak became managing director.
In terms of new alterations, Kevin Davies has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Davies had progressed as finance director since April 2023, having worked at the club since 2011. Meanwhile, loathed figure Jon Rudkin is set to lead the club’s football operation on both the men’s and women’s sides. He has been with the club for over 30 years and is now Chief Football Officer. The 57-year-old has come under major scrutiny in recent years due to his ever-increasing power, which has simultaneously seen a major decline on the pitch.
Due to the most recent news, a statement from Rudkin himself has come out. He said: “We approach that challenge with clarity, unity and determination, and we are fully committed to building a Club that our supporters can be proud of, both now and in the years ahead.”
Outside of him, James McCarron will become the Sporting Director in March. He has experience within the City Football Group, which could bode well for his switch to the Foxes. Furthermore, Russell Jones has been named Commercial Director to round up the whole host of change.
How Does This Affect Leicester?
Whilst on paper, this would be a positive, it’s hard to see how City’s situation gets better. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, King Power has struggled, especially due to its issues off the pitch. Simultaneously, the football club has seen similar woes, as they have been in constant battles with Profit & Sustainability rules and have overseen two relegations. Without Vichai in charge, the ownership ultimately hasn’t shown any signs of turning the turmoil around.
Furthermore, promoting senior figures who have overseen the years of mismanagement is also a questionable decision. Rudkin has been at the centre of toxicity from supporters, with the club even releasing a statement condemning chants about him. Even in recent interviews, Top described Rudkin as “good cop, bad cop”. It’s clear that the owners are standing by the long-term figure, especially with his success in the past.
Whilst adding someone like McCarron could be beneficial, he also has his own poor track record. Despite a strong resume with clubs like Manchester City and Belgian side Lommel SK, one report highlighted his mismanagement. Belgian Journalist Sven Claes pointed out that Lommel, who play in the second division, have racked up a net loss of 20 million euros over three and a half years.
Overall, there is a lot of pressure on the overhaul. If City do fall to successive relegations, then the work trying to rebuild will become even tougher. Both Rudkin and Top have acknowledged hopes of returning to the top division, which highlights the major ambitions. However, for many, it will be about actions rather than words as the Foxes continue their fight for survival.
