5 managers Leicester City simply must consider if Ruud van Nistelrooy exit happens | OneFootball

Ruud van Nistelrooy's future at Leicester City is the subject of intense speculation

Leicester City are expected to replace Ruud van Nistelrooy as manager before the start of the new season.

According to Rob Dorsett, the Foxes are set for talks with the Dutchman and it is likely that they will part ways over the summer.

The Leicestershire outfit are back in the Championship next season after having their relegation from the Premier League confirmed with five games to spare.

Leicester will be hoping to appoint someone that can guide them back to the top flight at the first attempt.

Here we look at five candidates that they must consider if Van Nistelrooy does depart the club…

Danny Rohl

Danny Rohl has done excellent work with Sheffield Wednesday, turning around their fortunes to solidify their position in the Championship.

The Owls looked destined for relegation to League One when he took over in October 2023, but he played a crucial part in their miraculous recovery to 20th in the table.

Rohl has also shown that he can operate with limited resources, which could prove crucial for Leicester amid growing concerns over their position in regards to profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

It has also been claimed by Dorsett that Rohl is on the shortlist of potential candidates, should Van Nistelrooy leave.

Gary O’Neil

Gary O’Neil established himself as a Premier League capable manager at both Bournemouth and Wolves.

While the end of his time at Molineux ended in disappointment, he’s still shown he can sort out a team and make them hard to beat.

With his experience, and this Leicester squad, he could be what the club needs if they want to go straight back up next season.

Russell Martin

Russell Martin is another manager that has been linked with a move to the King Power Stadium.

The 39-year-old has proven Championship experience, having guided Southampton to the Premier League in 2024.

He also brings a progressive, attacking style of play that he feels very strongly about, which will make it clear how the team will need to be organised, which could be the kind of forward-thinking vision Leicester needs at this point.

Sean Dyche

Sean Dyche is currently out of work after departing Everton earlier this season.

The 53-year-old has established himself as a Premier League capable manager, but it could be worth Leicester’s time to see if he can be convinced to take the step back down to the Championship.

Dyche has twice previously earned promotion to the top flight, and his pragmatic style could be an approach that can help them re-establish themselves in the division long-term after struggling under Steve Cooper and Van Nistelrooy.

Lee Carsley

Lee Carsley could be a left-field pick, but it’s been reported that he has been shortlisted by Leicester as an option.

The England underage manager has earned a strong reputation within the FA for his work with youngsters, something that might be appealing to the Foxes.

Carsley was also trusted with the senior England team while the FA searched for Gareth Southgate’s successor.