adminIn 2016, Leicester City were Premier League champions and played in the Champions League. In 2021, they won the FA Cup and Community Shield, earning another chance in European competition.
Five years later, the club has suffered back-to-back relegations and will play in League One next season.
Paul Dickov described the situation as “upsetting” while reflecting on the club’s dramatic fall.
Leicester’s Decline
When Leicester lifted major trophies under Claudio Ranieri and Brendan Rodgers, few expected such a sharp downfall.
After being relegated again in 2025, a six-point deduction for financial rule breaches made things worse. Even without the deduction, the team would still be in the relegation zone.
Now confirmed for the third tier, uncertainty surrounds the club’s future—managerial decisions, squad changes, and fan turnout at the King Power Stadium.
Could Vardy Return?
Jamie Vardy, who left the club last summer with 200 goals in 500 appearances, could potentially return after a season in Italy with Cremonese.
Paul Dickov said:
> “They do need something, whether it’s Jamie or not.
I’m gutted for everybody involved with the club. The fans especially—it was upsetting seeing so many empty seats at the King Power.”
He recalled his time at Leicester, highlighting the strong fan support even during difficult periods:
> “When we were relegated before, the fans stayed behind us. There was a real connection between the players and supporters. That connection seems to have gone now, which is really sad.”
What Went Wrong?
Dickov believes the players must take responsibility:
> “The squad has quality and experience. To be among promotion favourites and still get relegated is shambolic.
Players are quick to blame others, but they need to look at themselves. Too many have let the club down.”
He added that it is painful to see a club with such strong support in this position.
What Next?
Leicester must rebuild and find a way forward. A possible return for Vardy could provide leadership, but it remains unclear if he would take on such a challenge at this stage of his career.
The club has one final game this season before shifting focus to rebuilding for the future.
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