Leicester City Football Club have terminated the contract of manager Marti Cifuentes, with the decision coming less than twenty-four hours after a disappointing home defeat to Oxford United on Saturday. The 43-year-old Spaniard's departure marks a significant moment for the Championship club as they navigate a challenging season.
Final Straw at King Power Stadium
The atmosphere turned decisively against Cifuentes during the match against Oxford United, with sections of the home support at King Power Stadium audibly chanting for the manager to be 'sacked in the morning'. The loss to second-bottom Oxford proved to be the final catalyst for the club's hierarchy, who convened for talks on Sunday morning before reaching their conclusion later that afternoon.
Owner's Direct Involvement
Club owner and chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, who had travelled from Thailand to attend the match, was present in the directors' box to witness the performance and the subsequent fan reaction. His personal involvement underscores the gravity of the situation at the former Premier League champions.
'This has been a difficult decision and not one I have taken lightly,' stated Srivaddhanaprabha in an official club announcement. '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.'
The chairman 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.'
Challenging Tenure and League Position
Cifuentes, who was appointed in July 2025, oversaw a mixed record during his time in charge. The manager won ten out of the twenty-nine Championship matches for which he was responsible. Currently, Leicester find themselves positioned six points adrift of the play-off places, while maintaining a nine-point buffer above the relegation zone.
Looming PSR Uncertainty
The managerial change occurs against a backdrop of significant off-pitch uncertainty. Leicester City are currently awaiting the outcome of an independent commission hearing regarding alleged breaches of the league's Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
A potential nine-point deduction as punishment would dramatically alter their league standing, pushing them to the brink of the relegation places, separated only by goal difference. This looming threat adds considerable pressure to the club's immediate future and the task facing Cifuentes's successor.
