Leicester City have parted company with head coach Marti Cifuentes following a dismal run of form that has left the club sitting 14th in the Championship.
Cifuentes, who arrived in the summer after replacing Ruud van Nistelrooy, has paid the price for a campaign that has failed to gain momentum. Saturday’s 2-1 defeat away to relegation battlers Oxford United proved to be the final straw, marking the Foxes’ 11th league loss of the season and leaving them six points off the playoff places.
The East Midlands side, still adjusting to life back in the second tier after last season’s Premier League relegation, have struggled to meet expectations. Frustration among supporters had been growing, with calls for change growing louder in the wake of the Oxford defeat.
In a club statement confirming the decision, Leicester said: “Marti 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.
“First-team coach Andy King will oversee preparations on an interim basis while the club begins the process of appointing a new permanent manager.”
Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha also explained the reasoning behind the move. “This has been a very difficult decision and not one taken lightly,” he said. “I want to thank Martí for the commitment and hard work he showed throughout his time here. He gave everything to the role and worked tirelessly to help us reach our objectives.
“Ultimately, I believe this change is necessary to lift performances and results and to act in the best interests of Leicester City Football Club. Martí leaves with our gratitude and best wishes for the future.”
Only hours before his dismissal, Cifuentes had spoken openly after the Oxford loss about the mounting pressure. “There are a number of fans who are unhappy right now, and as the manager you have to take responsibility,” he said.
“We are working relentlessly every day to help the club and improve the situation. If there’s one thing that gives me confidence, it’s that at every club I’ve worked at, I’ve achieved the targets set. I’ve been through different stages in my career and always delivered.
“The objective here is clear and I will not stop working towards it. My focus is simply on preparing for the next game and getting better results.”