
EPL Index
·12 May 2025
Dyche among top contenders for Foxes manager

EPL Index
·12 May 2025
Leicester City are expected to part ways with Ruud van Nistelrooy following their relegation to the Championship, and Sean Dyche has emerged as a leading candidate to take the reins at the King Power Stadium, talkSPORT understands.
Van Nistelrooy, who replaced Steve Cooper in November, has endured a turbulent first season in charge. Under his stewardship, the Foxes have managed just four wins in 24 games. Despite being under contract until 2027, the Dutchman is widely expected to depart after failing to keep Leicester in the Premier League.
With preparations already underway for next season in the EFL, Leicester’s board—led by director of football Jon Rudkin—is believed to be evaluating a number of managerial options. Dyche, who has a proven record of Championship promotion and top-flight survival, is understood to be highly regarded by the club’s hierarchy.
Photo: IMAGO
Dyche, 53, brings a wealth of experience, particularly in high-pressure environments. Twice he guided Burnley to promotion from the Championship, establishing them as a stubborn Premier League side for several years. His spell at Everton ended in January this year after a difficult run, but Dyche remains bullish about the impact he made on Merseyside.
Speaking to talkSPORT in March, Dyche reflected on his time at Goodison Park with pride:
“I was really positive about it when I left and I still am. People only see what they see and that’s fine. Fans don’t understand the amount that we had to do behind the scenes, not just me by the way.”
He continued:
“All sorts of it needed correcting. I went in there with an idea of thinking it was this. And it wasn’t. It was miles away from where I was. It was in a lot worse shape. I don’t want people to misconstrue it.”
His remarks suggest a manager who sees beyond the touchline—someone who recognises the broader structural issues that can affect a club’s trajectory. That insight could prove invaluable to a Leicester side looking for more than just a tactical reset.
While Dyche appears to be a frontrunner, Leicester are also keeping tabs on other candidates. Bristol City’s Liam Manning is reportedly in contention, having guided the Robins to the Championship play-offs. However, his side suffered a setback with a 3-0 first-leg defeat to Sheffield United, potentially weakening his case.
Leicester’s decision is expected to be made in the coming weeks as they aim to secure their next manager before pre-season begins. Given their financial strength and top-flight infrastructure, the Foxes will be determined to bounce back quickly and decisively.
Dyche’s track record and leadership credentials offer a compelling case. Whether Leicester turn to him or another candidate, the next appointment will be crucial in shaping the club’s future.