Leicester City are reportedly considering re-signing former left-back and Academy graduate Ben Chilwell.
While some supporters may welcome the idea, there are valid reasons why this move might not be the wisest choice for the Foxes.
Here’s why the club should carefully weigh their options before bringing the England international back from Chelsea.
In other Leicester-related developments, Southampton manager Russell Martin recently weighed in on the contrasting styles between former Leicester manager Enzo Maresca and current boss Steve Cooper.
Martin, whose side faced Leicester twice last season and conceded a combined nine goals (4-1 and 5-0), offers a unique perspective on their tactical approaches.
Russell Martin on Leicester City:
Leicester and Southampton will clash again this weekend in what Martin describes as a crucial Premier League fixture, calling it a ‘six-pointer.’
The Saints boss praised Cooper’s impact, stating: “The best traits of Maresca’s triumphant Leicester remain.”
He added that Cooper has “created a well-rounded” Leicester side by blending his methods with what the Italian coach built during their successful Championship campaign.
However, not all Leicester supporters would share Martin’s enthusiasm. Some members of the Blue Army argue that Cooper’s tenure hasn’t yet lived up to expectations.
Nonetheless, Martin remains convinced that the Foxes’ Championship triumph was well-deserved, crediting their effective organisation and potent counter-attacking style for last season’s success.
Chilwell: A Risky Return
As for Ben Chilwell, while the defender had his moments at Leicester, it’s hard to justify a return at this stage. Chilwell was never quite world-class, though he often came close. Part of his inflated value at the time may have been due to England’s lack of top-tier left-sided players.
If Leicester have funds available in January, they would be better spent on players who offer more consistent attacking contributions or stronger defensive stability. Chilwell’s form in recent seasons suggests he may not provide either.
Many Leicester fans still remember some disappointing episodes towards the end of his time at the club. His half-hearted performance at Millwall, for example, hinted at a waning commitment as he angled for a move away.
Then there was the infamous celebration when he scored for Chelsea at the King Power Stadium, clearly trying to antagonise the home crowd.
Perhaps most telling was his reaction in the 2021 FA Cup Final, when his late goal against Leicester was disallowed by VAR. Chilwell’s visible frustration spoke volumes about his lack of appreciation for the club that developed him.
Time to Move On:
Rather than looking backward, Leicester should focus on the future. Players like Victor Kristiansen and James Justin offer promise and are likely better long-term options. They’re younger, cheaper, and have shown more loyalty to the club.
While it’s possible Chilwell could contribute if he were to return, it feels like a step in the wrong direction. The Foxes would be wise to channel their resources towards other reinforcements rather than revisiting the past.
In the end, the question isn’t just whether Chilwell could succeed again at Leicester, but whether the club really needs him. With more cost-effective, talented options available, it may be time to close the door on this chapter and invest in players who can take Leicester forward.