Leicester City’s players were seen partying in Copenhagen just hours before the dismissal of head coach Steve Cooper. Cooper, who was appointed during the summer, was sacked after only 12 matches following a 3-1 defeat to Chelsea, marking the end of a turbulent tenure.
Player Discontent with Cooper’s Leadership
Footage from the night out featured Danish players Jannik Vestergaard and Victor Kristiansen holding a sign that read, “Enzo, I miss you,” a nod to former manager Enzo Maresca. Maresca, who previously led Leicester to promotion, remains a beloved figure among the squad despite leaving to join Chelsea.
The sign highlighted a lack of support for Cooper within the squad. Players reportedly felt he was not the right leader to help the team avoid relegation. This sentiment, coupled with underwhelming performances, forced management to act decisively.
Chairman Takes Action
Leicester City chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, present at the Chelsea match, was reportedly aware of dissatisfaction among the players and fans. Cooper’s failure to gain the trust of both the squad and supporters made his position untenable, despite his prior success in keeping Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Club Statement and Next Steps
Following the sacking, Leicester released a statement expressing gratitude for Cooper and his staff but emphasizing the need for change. Assistant manager Alan Tate and coach Steve Rands also left their positions.
“Leicester City Football Club has parted company with Steve Cooper, who leaves his position as First Team Manager with immediate effect,” the club stated.
The club is now urgently seeking a replacement, with Graham Potter, David Moyes, and Carlos Corberan among the potential candidates. Leicester aims to secure a new manager before crucial upcoming matches against Brentford and West Ham.
Looking Ahead
The quick dismissal underlines Leicester’s determination to recover from their poor start to the season. The club’s next managerial appointment will be critical to stabilizing the team and reigniting their Premier League campaign.
