Leicester City have announced the dismissal of manager Martí Cifuentes with immediate effect, a mere six months after he took the helm at the club. This decision comes just ahead of a crucial weekend fixture against Charlton Athletic in the Sky Bet Championship.
Sudden departure amid poor form
The Foxes have opted to part ways with Cifuentes following a disappointing run of results that has seen the team secure only one point from their last three league outings. Prior to this slump, Leicester had shown glimpses of promise with victories over Cheltenham Town in the FA Cup third round and a win against West Bromwich Albion in the Championship.
Festive period struggles
However, the festive period proved particularly challenging for Cifuentes and his squad. A heavy 4-1 defeat to Queens Park Rangers was followed by losses to Watford and Sheffield United, although they did manage to secure a win against Derby County. These results have left Leicester in a precarious position in the league table.
After 29 games this season, the former Premier League side have recorded 10 wins, eight draws, and 11 losses. They currently find themselves six points adrift of the top six, sitting just two points behind QPR but a significant 11 points behind Millwall, who occupy fifth place. Leicester are also six points clear of Charlton Athletic, who are hovering just three points above the relegation zone ahead of their upcoming clash.
Cifuentes' brief tenure
Martí Cifuentes was appointed as Leicester City manager on July 15, 2025, shortly after his departure from Queens Park Rangers. The 43-year-old Spaniard had impressed during his time at QPR, which marked his first managerial role in English football. However, he was placed on 'gardening leave' at the end of the previous season amid speculation linking him with the West Bromwich Albion job.
Although the move to The Hawthorns did not materialise, Cifuentes eventually secured the Leicester position after his contract with QPR was terminated. His tenure at the King Power Stadium has now been cut short following growing discontent among supporters.
Fan discontent and club statement
During Leicester's recent defeat to Oxford United, sections of the Foxes faithful were heard chanting against Cifuentes, highlighting the mounting pressure on the manager. In response, the club issued a formal statement confirming his departure.
The statement read: "We can confirm that Martí Cifuentes has left his position as Leicester City First Team Manager with immediate effect. Martí took charge of the team in July 2025 and leaves with the thanks of everyone at Leicester City for his professionalism and dedication during his time with us."
It further added: "First Team Coach Andy King will take charge of team preparations on an interim basis while we undertake a process to appoint a permanent manager."
Chairman's comments
Leicester City Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha addressed the decision, stating: "This has been a difficult decision and not one I have taken lightly. I would like to thank Martí for the total commitment he has shown during his time at Leicester City. He gave everything to the role and worked tirelessly to help us achieve our targets."
He continued: "However, I believe this is the right step at this time to improve performances and results, and to act in the best interests of Leicester City Football Club. Martí leaves with our thanks and our best wishes for the future."
Upcoming fixtures
Leicester now face a challenging run of games, starting with Saturday's match against Charlton Athletic. They are also set to meet Birmingham City in the coming weeks, with a return fixture against QPR scheduled for March 14. The penultimate game of the season will see Millwall travel to the King Power Stadium in late April, adding further significance to the club's search for a new permanent manager.
The dismissal of Cifuentes marks a significant moment in Leicester City's season as they aim to salvage their campaign and push for a higher league position under new leadership.
