Leicester City are bracing for a transformative period after sacking Steve Cooper last weekend, with Ruud van Nistelrooy emerging as a strong contender to take over at the King Power Stadium.
Sources at GIVEMESPORT suggest the former Manchester United caretaker manager has impressed Leicester’s hierarchy with his brief but effective spell in charge at Old Trafford.
Foxes chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha has taken a hands-on approach to the managerial search, making a rare visit to the dressing room following Leicester’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.
The result left the club perilously close to the relegation zone, just one point above the bottom three, and tied for the third-worst defensive record in the Premier League. Alongside director of football John Rudkin, Srivaddhanaprabha is now leading the hunt for a successor.
Van Nistelrooy Impresses in Caretaker Role
Van Nistelrooy, Carlos Corberan of West Bromwich Albion, and outgoing England interim boss Lee Carsley are all being considered, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Van Nistelrooy, who managed four matches as Manchester United’s interim boss, including two against Leicester, is understood to have impressed Leicester officials with his tactical approach and handling of the squad during that period.
The Foxes are searching for a manager who can establish a strong connection with both the players and supporters—something Cooper struggled to achieve.
Reports indicate Van Nistelrooy could replicate the impact of former boss Enzo Maresca, who was well-regarded within the squad.
The Dutchman, who previously managed PSV Eindhoven, is said to be eager for a Premier League opportunity despite Leicester’s precarious position.
Meanwhile, Corberan remains a viable option. A candidate for the job last summer, he is viewed as someone who could develop Leicester’s tactical system. Corberan is reportedly willing to leave West Brom mid-season if the Foxes come calling.
Pearson Open to Returning
Nigel Pearson, who famously led Leicester’s “Great Escape” in 2015, has also been linked with a return.
Pearson, currently recovering from health issues after leaving Bristol City, is reportedly open to aiding the club in some capacity. Although he has yet to be approached, his strong relationship with Srivaddhanaprabha could make him a fallback option.
Graham Potter and David Moyes have also been discussed internally, but neither appears likely to take the role.
Potter was close to joining Leicester in the summer but pulled out at the last minute, despite being impressed by the club’s facilities and vision. Moyes, meanwhile, has not indicated any interest in the position after leaving West Ham.
The Decision to Sack Cooper
Cooper’s dismissal was largely driven by Srivaddhanaprabha, who believed action was needed before the busy festive period to boost Leicester’s survival chances.
While the Chelsea defeat accelerated his exit, doubts over Cooper’s suitability had lingered since the early stages of his tenure.
Concerns about his style of play and lack of progress had been discussed during both international breaks this season.
Despite sitting just outside the relegation zone, Cooper reportedly believed his position was secure and that there was a foundation to build on. However, his inability to establish a rapport with fans and the squad’s lack of cohesion ultimately sealed his fate.
What Lies Ahead
Leicester’s next manager will inherit a squad that includes talent like goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, who remains committed to the club despite interest from Chelsea.
The new appointment will also face the challenge of stabilizing a side struggling defensively and re-establishing a clear identity on the pitch.
With Van Nistelrooy among the frontrunners, the Foxes could be poised to usher in a fresh chapter under a high-profile figure eager to make his mark in the Premier League.
Whether he, or another candidate, steps into the dugout, Leicester’s decision will define their battle for survival and the trajectory of their season.
