Marti Cifuentes has deflected much of the blame from himself following Leicester City’s 1-0 loss to Millwall, insisting that certain players failed to execute their responsibilities on the pitch — a lapse he believes ultimately cost the Foxes yet another defeat in the Championship.
Leicester’s miserable run continued at The Den, where Femi Azeez’s first-half strike was enough to seal the points for the home side. The result means City have now won just once in their last eight games, falling eight points adrift of the automatic promotion places.
Speaking after the match, Cifuentes was candid in his assessment of the players’ performance, particularly in defence. While acknowledging his tactical approach, he made it clear that individual errors were the deciding factor.
“We didn’t defend well. Football is a game of mistakes, you need to learn and put things right. When You’re Smiling.” (Indirectly placing the blame on the defenders)
The Foxes boss explained that his side had started the match well, creating early openings before Millwall grew into the game and began to exploit Leicester’s defensive weaknesses.
“It was not the result we wanted,” Cifuentes said. “We began the game brightly, especially in the first 15 minutes. We moved the ball well and created chances, but after that Millwall’s pressure increased, and we couldn’t use the spaces in behind.
“It was very disappointing to concede just before half-time because it came from a lack of concentration. We allowed them too much time and space to make that pass and finish.”
The Spaniard also highlighted how injuries and in-game changes disrupted his plans, pointing out that the second half became increasingly emotional as Leicester struggled to regain momentum.
“Losing Aaron (Ramsey) to injury changed things for us. We tried adjusting with different systems — first with a back three, then with natural wingers — but it wasn’t enough. We couldn’t find the rhythm or the precision we needed in the final third,” he admitted.
Fans, however, have been quick to turn their frustration toward Cifuentes, accusing him of poor tactics and questionable team selections. Many believe his approach has drained confidence from key players who flourished under Enzo Maresca just months ago.
Still, Cifuentes insists that the problems lie in execution rather than design.
“This is part of the rebuilding process,” he added. “We need to keep working, stay together, and correct these details. The supporters deserve much better, and it’s up to all of us — players and staff — to give them that.”
The pressure is mounting, though. Leicester’s latest defeat leaves them in a precarious position, with fans growing impatient over repeated excuses. Unless performances improve quickly, even Cifuentes’ unwavering belief in his project may not be enough to keep him safe at King Power Stadium.