Leicester City Football Club has parted ways with manager Steve Cooper following a series of disappointing results that have left the team perilously close to the Premier League relegation zone.
The club announced that first-team coach Ben Dawson will serve as interim manager until a permanent successor is appointed.
Reports indicate that former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is poised to take over the managerial role.
Cooper’s dismissal came after a 2-1 home defeat to Chelsea, a result that extended Leicester’s winless streak to five matches.
The club currently sits 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone, having secured only two victories in their opening 12 games.
In addition to Cooper’s departure, assistant manager Alan Tate and first-team coach and analyst Steve Rands have also left the club.
In the interim, Ben Dawson, who was part of Cooper’s backroom staff, has been tasked with leading the team. He will be supported by coaches Danny Alcock and Andy Hughes as Leicester prepares for upcoming fixtures.
Dawson’s immediate challenge is to galvanize the squad and halt the downward trajectory that has characterized their recent performances.
Amid this managerial upheaval, Ruud van Nistelrooy has emerged as the frontrunner to assume the permanent managerial position at Leicester City.
The 48-year-old Dutchman, renowned for his prolific goal-scoring during his playing days at Manchester United, has transitioned into coaching roles, including a recent stint as interim head coach at Manchester United.
His managerial experience also includes leading PSV Eindhoven to a second-place finish in the Eredivisie and securing the Dutch Cup.
Van Nistelrooy’s potential appointment is seen as a strategic move by Leicester’s management to inject fresh ideas and leadership into the team.
His familiarity with the Premier League and experience at top-tier clubs are viewed as assets that could help steer the Foxes away from relegation threats.
Negotiations are reportedly in the final stages, with an official announcement anticipated soon.
However, van Nistelrooy is not expected to be in charge for Leicester’s upcoming match against Brentford, with his debut likely to come in the subsequent fixture against West Ham United.
The swift managerial change underscores Leicester City’s urgent need to reverse their fortunes and climb the Premier League standings.
The club’s leadership is hopeful that the combination of Dawson’s interim stewardship and van Nistelrooy’s impending appointment will provide the necessary impetus for improved performances and results.
