There has already been a managerial casualty in the Championship with Leicester City announcing the departure of Ruud van Nistelrooy. The former Manchester United striker was appointed in December with the aim of keeping the club in the Premier League. However, he failed to deliver that objective with Leicester now preparing for life in the second tier of English football.
Van Nistelrooy oversaw just five wins in the Premier League last season as the Foxes slumped to an immediate relegation. Under his leadership, they became the first side in top-flight history to go nine games without scoring at home. They were ultimately sent down with five games to spare and finished 10 points adrift of safety in their first season back in the big time.
Rumours had been swirling about Van Nistelrooy's job security and his exit has now been officially confirmed. Leicester revealed the news in a statement, which was issued just one day after the Championship fixtures were released.
They said: "Leicester City Football Club and Ruud van Nistelrooy have mutually agreed that Ruud’s contract with the club as first-team manager will terminate with immediate effect.
"Ruud has overseen a challenging period for the club. From his appointment in November 2024, he approached the role with professionalism, integrity and a clear commitment to our aims, including through the integration of several promising players from the club’s academy into our first-team environment.
"Ruud moves on with the respect and thanks of everyone at the football club for his dedication and hard work, and with our very best wishes for the future.
"Preparation for the EFL Championship season will continue with the planned start of pre-season on Monday 30 June. First-team coaching staff will oversee the delivery of those plans until a new manager is appointed."
Van Nistelrooy added: "I would like to personally thank the Leicester City players, coaches, academy and all the staff I have worked with for their professionalism and dedication during my time at the club and to thank the fans for their support, and take this opportunity to wish the club well for the future."
Leicester were unable to sack Van Nistelrooy earlier because it would have affected their latest PSR accounts, according to Sky Sports. The report adds that several managers have already been earmarked as potential replacements for the 48-year-old.
Sean Dyche is named as a possible target for the Foxes, while Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl is also thought to be under consideration.
Leicester will be hoping to make a speedy appointment to avoid further disruption to their pre-season preparations. They are seeking an immediate return to the Premier League along with fellow relegated clubs Ipswich Town and Southampton.
They will begin their campaign at home to Sheffield Wednesday, which could see Rohl manage against his former club if he jumps ship to the King Power Stadium.
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