Ex-Tottenham Striker Now in Contention to Be Next Leicester Manager Amid Marti Cifuentes Sack News

Leicester City manager Marti Cifuentes is the frontrunner to be the next Championship boss sacked, amid growing pressure following a disappointing season in the second tier. Appointed on a three-year contract in July 2025 after leaving Queens Park Rangers, the Spaniard was hired to guide the Foxes back to the Premier League. However, after 26 games, Leicester sit 12th, with nine losses and fan discontent evident at a half-empty King Power Stadium during their recent 2-1 win over West Brom— a result that cost Ryan Mason his job at the Baggies.[1][3]

Cifuentes briefly steadied the ship with a three-match unbeaten run, including victories over Derby and Ipswich, which reportedly saved his position last month. But subsequent defeats, such as to Sheffield United, have reignited doubts. Betting odds list him at 3/1 to be the next Championship dismissal, ahead of Birmingham's Chris Davies (4/1) and Sheffield Wednesday's Henrik Pedersen (5/1).[1]

If sacked, former Tottenham striker Michael Carrick emerges as the leading candidate to replace him at 3/1 odds. The ex-England midfielder and current Championship manager prospect is praised as one of the best available options. Close behind are ex-Rangers boss at 5/1 and Gary O’Neil at 6/1, while former Leicester manager Martin O’Neill is also linked at 13/2 and reportedly approached by the club.[1][2][4]

O’Neill’s Premier League experience and ability to handle young players make him a strong short-term fix, per reports, as Leicester desperately seek promotion. Carrick’s stock has risen amid the Championship sack race, positioning the ex-Tottenham youth product—though not a traditional striker, having transitioned to midfield—as a surprise but favored contender. Fans and board alike demand quick improvement, with January whispers of a shortlist including these names.[2][4]

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