Leicester City have commenced their search for a new manager following the dismissal of Marti Cifuentes, who was sacked after just six months in charge at the King Power Stadium. The Foxes' decision comes after a disappointing run of form that has left the club languishing in 14th place in the Championship, a mere six points from the play-off positions and only nine points above the relegation zone.
Favourites Emerge in the Betting Markets
Among the frontrunners according to the latest Championship betting odds is Russell Martin, who is currently priced as low as 4/1 to take the helm. Despite a brief and unsuccessful stint at Rangers, where he managed only 17 games before being sacked in October, Martin's stock remains relatively high. His credentials include guiding Southampton to promotion via the play-offs in his first season, culminating in a 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley. However, his subsequent Premier League campaign with Southampton ended abruptly after 13 defeats in 16 games, leading to his sacking in December 2024.
Experienced Championship Contenders
Another prominent name in the frame is Gary Rowett, also available at odds of 4/1. The 51-year-old is currently out of work after being dismissed by Oxford United in December, having left the club in the relegation zone. Rowett boasts extensive Championship experience, having managed six different clubs since 2012, including two spells at Birmingham City. He notably led Derby County to the Championship play-off final in 2020, where they were defeated by Fulham. Additionally, Rowett has a personal connection to Leicester, having spent two years as a player at the club during their Premier League era.
Surprise Candidates Enter the Fray
The betting markets have thrown up some unexpected contenders, with Vito Pereira appearing at odds of 5/1. The former Wolverhampton Wanderers manager was sacked by Wolves earlier this season with the club rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table, having lost his first ten games in charge. Despite winning two Portuguese titles with Porto, Pereira has no experience in the EFL, making his potential appointment a curious prospect.
Perhaps even more surprising is the inclusion of Chris Coleman, who is as short as 2/1 with some bookmakers. The former Wales and Fulham boss has not managed in England since 2018, when he was sacked by Sunderland after failing to prevent their relegation from the Championship. Since then, Coleman has had spells in China, Greece, Cyprus, and Belgium, most recently leaving Greek side Asteras Tripolis, potentially positioning him for a return to English football.
Fan Sentiment and Managerial Shortlist
Leicester supporters have expressed a desire to see former boss Enzo Maresca return to the club. The Italian, recently sacked by Chelsea, led Leicester to the Championship title in 2024 with an impressive 97 points. Interestingly, Maresca does not feature on the bookmakers' shortlist, whereas names like Ange Postecoglou, Patrick Vieira, Erik ten Hag, and Tony Pulis do appear, highlighting the speculative nature of the betting markets.
As the managerial hunt intensifies, Leicester City will be keen to appoint a leader capable of revitalising their season and mounting a serious challenge for promotion. The diverse range of candidates, from proven Championship operators to more left-field options, ensures this remains one of the most intriguing stories in English football.
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