NafisaLeicester City are on the brink of their second relegation from the Premier League in just three years. After suffering a 3-0 loss to Manchester United on Sunday, the Foxes need nothing short of a miracle to survive.
While the on-field issues remain a topic for another day, the bigger picture paints a bleak scenario. Leicester haven’t found themselves in such a precarious position since before King Power’s takeover. The once-vocal fanbase no longer provides the same energy as the club’s “twelfth man.”
And who can blame them? A 7 pm kick-off on a Sunday, when relegation to the Championship seems almost inevitable, was never going to draw a packed-out King Power Stadium.
With Wolves securing a victory over Southampton, City now face the daunting task of closing a nine-point gap to secure survival. Since their dramatic 3-2 comeback win at Southampton on October 19—20 games ago—they have managed just eight points. Calling the challenge ahead for Ruud van Nistelrooy a difficult one would be an understatement.
Sunday’s fixture followed a thrilling day of football, which included the Old Firm derby, the Steel City derby, a London derby, and the Carabao Cup final. But when it was Leicester’s turn to take the stage in the last Premier League match before the international break, the result was disastrous.
To put it bluntly, they were dreadful, making United appear world-class in comparison. The victory propelled Ruben Amorim’s side up to 13th place, yet another reminder of what is shaping up to be Manchester United’s worst-ever Premier League campaign.
During the week, Leicester announced a freeze on season ticket prices for the ninth time in 11 seasons. They also confirmed that matchday ticket prices, which had already seen an increase of up to 38% at the start of the campaign, would not be raised further.
However, as has often been the case with recent club statements, one decision has sparked backlash among supporters. From next season, all season ticket holders will be required to use a digital ticket instead of a physical plastic card—though exceptions will be made for under-16s, over-65s, and disabled supporters.
The club justifies this move as a means to “meet Premier League mandated requirements.” The irony? Leicester won’t even be in the Premier League next season; they’ll be governed by EFL rules instead. This decision is the latest in a string of unpopular moves over the past two years.
Frustration with the club’s leadership has been growing throughout the season. Fans have repeatedly called for director of football Jon Rudkin to be removed, expressing their discontent in various ways—including simply not attending matches.
On Sunday, empty seats were scattered throughout the stadium. The East Stand and Kop had noticeable gaps, and even the hospitality section in front of the press box contained vacant spots. While the unusual kick-off time played a role, the lack of attendance mirrored what was seen in the defeat to Brentford.
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