Gary Rowett Set for Dramatic Leicester City Return
Leicester City are reportedly on the verge of appointing former Millwall and Birmingham City manager Gary Rowett as their new boss, as the Championship club faces a critical relegation battle. The Foxes have been searching for a new leader since dismissing Marti Cifuentes at the end of January, after just six months in charge.
Leicester's Desperate Situation
Since Cifuentes' departure, Leicester's fortunes have worsened significantly. The Midlands outfit has been deducted six points and currently sits 22nd in the Championship, two points from safety. The team has lost all of its last five matches and hasn't secured a win in the league since January 5, creating an urgent need for managerial stability.
According to talkSPORT reports, Leicester City are now "braced" to hire Rowett, who would be tasked with the immediate challenge of lifting the club away from the relegation zone. Rowett is available after being sacked by Oxford United in December, making him a prime candidate for the position.
Rowett's Connection and Experience
Gary Rowett brings a unique connection to Leicester City, having played 57 matches for the Foxes between 2000 and 2002 during his professional career. His managerial experience includes a notable four-year stint at Millwall, where he oversaw 196 matches—the most at any club in his career—and won 76 of those outings.
Rowett left Millwall by mutual consent in October 2023, stating at the time: "I have thoroughly enjoyed being manager of Millwall and depart with a feeling that the club has progressed during my tenure. As is sometimes the case in football, the time just feels right to part ways."
Rowett's Previous Comments on the Job
Last week, Rowett commented on the vacant Leicester City position during an interview with Sky Sports, revealing his insights into the club's appeal. He said: "I think they'll make a change as well, managerial-wise. I think they'll be really ambitious with their next appointment."
He elaborated: "If they are in the top six, I think it's a very different appeal to the job. But when you look at their training ground, when you look at the size of the club, I think there'll be a hell of a lot of managers who'll be looking at that job thinking, 'I can get them out of trouble'. Then it's what's next for that opportunity and I don't think there are many jobs that come around like that in the Championship."
Rowett concluded by predicting an ambitious appointment soon, which now appears to be materializing with his own potential hiring. This move marks a significant moment for both Rowett and Leicester City as they aim to reverse their fortunes in the competitive second tier of English football.
