Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi faces the remainder of the Premier League season without Steve Cooper, as Leicester City have parted ways with their coach following a dismal run of form.
The club announced Cooper’s dismissal on Sunday after a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea left the Foxes hovering just above the relegation zone in 16th place.
Cooper, who was appointed just five months ago after the departure of Enzo Maresca, oversaw a challenging period for Leicester.
Despite his efforts, the newly promoted side has struggled, failing to win in their last four league outings and amassing only 10 points so far this season.
Leicester City released a statement confirming the decision, thanking Cooper and his assistants, Alan Tate and Steve Rands, for their contributions.
Leicester City said: Leicester City Football Club has parted company with Steve Cooper, who leaves his position as First Team Manager with immediate effect.
“Assistant Manager Alan Tate and First Team Coach and Analyst Steve Rands have also left the Club.
“Steve, Alan and Steve depart with our thanks for their contribution during their time with the Club and with our best wishes for the future.
“Men’s First Team training will be overseen by First Team Coach Ben Dawson, supported by coaches Danny Alcock and Andy Hughes, as the Club begins the process of appointing a new manager, which we hope to conclude as soon as possible,” the statement read.
For Ndidi, Cooper’s exit marks yet another managerial shake-up in his Leicester career.
Ndidi to get new coach as Leicester look to avoid relegation
The Nigerian international has been a cornerstone of the Foxes’ midfield since joining in 2017.
Under Cooper, Ndidi was a pivotal figure in the team’s tactical setup, but the transition to a new manager adds an extra layer of uncertainty as Leicester prepare for a relegation battle sitting just above the drop zone.
Cooper’s tenure at Leicester came on the back of a stint at Nottingham Forest, where he famously guided the club to Premier League promotion in 2022.
However, his dismissal by Forest in December 2023, and now at Leicester, underlines the unforgiving nature of the Premier League.
