Leicester Begin Search for New Manager Following Steve Cooper’s Dismissal

Leicester City are aiming to appoint a new permanent manager ahead of Saturday’s clash with Brentford after sacking Steve Cooper just 15 games into his tenure. The former Nottingham Forest boss was relieved of his duties following a lacklustre 2-1 home defeat to Chelsea, leaving the Foxes hovering just two points above the Premier League relegation zone.

Hired on a three-year deal last summer, Cooper’s departure comes with Leicester in the best position among last season’s promoted clubs. However, his short stint was marred by underwhelming performances and a failure to win over the majority of the squad.

The club is understood to be revisiting their interest in Graham Potter, whom they approached during the summer and again in spring 2023. Leicester’s hierarchy believes Potter’s pedigree and style of play could provide the stability and improvement required to steer the team away from the relegation battle.

Tensions within the squad became apparent during their Christmas party in Copenhagen, held on Saturday night with Cooper’s approval. Photographs from the city’s Museo nightclub showed one reveller holding a sign reading “Enzo I miss you,” a pointed nod to former Leicester coach Enzo Maresca. Hours earlier, Maresca had led Chelsea to the win that sealed Cooper’s fate.

While results under Cooper were not catastrophic, Leicester’s board grew concerned over poor performances and a disconnect within the squad. The shift in approach between Cooper and Maresca reportedly unsettled several players, further compounding the team’s struggles.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, recently departing Manchester United, could enter the frame for the role, while David Moyes, a seasoned manager with a strong track record, is another option under consideration. Leicester are determined to avoid repeating last season’s mistakes when delaying Brendan Rodgers’ dismissal contributed to their relegation.

Though not a decisive factor in his sacking, Cooper’s outspoken criticism of match officials drew attention during his brief tenure. After Saturday’s game, he publicly criticised referee Andy Madley for awarding Leicester just one penalty in the second half, a rare approach for a manager under the Srivaddhanaprabha family’s ownership.

Leicester now face a crucial decision to ensure their Premier League survival, with the club keen to act swiftly as they prepare for a tough test against Brentford this weekend.