Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has voiced strong support for manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, emphasizing the Dutchman’s positive influence and urging patience as the Foxes navigate a difficult Premier League season.
A Managerial Reset
Van Nistelrooy, a former Manchester United legend, took the reins at Leicester in late November following Steve Cooper’s dismissal. Tasked with lifting the Foxes out of the relegation zone, he signed a contract until June 2027. The role marks Van Nistelrooy’s first major managerial assignment after a brief stint as interim boss at Old Trafford.
READ MORE:Leon Balogun Blow: Rangers star forced off early
His tenure started with promise as Leicester ended a six-game winless run by beating West Ham United 3-1. However, the resurgence was short-lived; three consecutive defeats, including a Boxing Day loss to Liverpool, have left Leicester languishing in 18th place with just 14 points from 18 matches.
Ndidi’s Perspective
Despite the mounting pressure, Ndidi remains optimistic about the team’s future under Van Nistelrooy. Speaking to The Punch, the Nigerian midfielder praised the manager’s approach and called for collective resolve.
“He’s an amazing manager with an amazing personality who is trying to put the team together,” Ndidi said. “He’s building up from there, and with time, we will get his philosophy and win games. There are still many games to play, and we are up for it.”
Currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, Ndidi has been unable to contribute on the pitch but remains confident in Leicester’s ability to escape relegation.
“We have the quality to remain in the league,” he added. “Things are not going the right way now, but we have the quality to get there with time.”
Challenges Ahead
Promoted back to the Premier League this season, Leicester faces a steep climb to avoid an immediate return to the Championship. With only three wins so far, the Foxes must find consistency to secure their top-flight status.
Ndidi’s Impact Beyond Football
Off the field, Ndidi continues to lead by example. On Boxing Day, he brought joy to approximately 2,000 children in Ajegunle, Lagos State, during an event held at the Maracana Sports Centre.
Despite his injury, Ndidi personally served food and engaged with the children. The initiative, organized with local leaders and businessman Yemi Idowu, showcased his dedication to supporting his community.
“All we are trying to do is create memories with the children. Some of us didn’t have this experience while growing up. This isn’t just about football, it’s about giving kids something to remember during their Christmas break. A moment they will carry on forever” Wilfred Ndidi pic.twitter.com/mbK5IS0SyZ
— Oluwaseyi | Sports (@seewhat_isaw) December 27, 2024
As Leicester faces a critical juncture in their season, Ndidi’s belief in Van Nistelrooy’s vision and his own leadership off the pitch provide hope for brighter days ahead.
