Leicester City will have many new faces during their 2025/26 Championship season, including a new manager at the helm. Russell Martin, formerly with Southampton, has already navigated the Championship once, and he could do it again with Leicester.
Russell Martin's Southampton promotion
Leicester has been linked to a deal with Martin. The former Southampton boss was sacked by the Saints in December, but he enjoyed success with the club when he led them to promotion into the Premier League.
After a tough run of form in the top flight, Martin lost his job with Southampton. However, his ability to get the Saints into the Premier League through the play-offs will appeal to Leicester. Martin proved he could lead a Championship side back into the highest level of English football.
Martin took charge of the Saints in the summer of 2023, after the club had been relegated back to the Championship. He quickly gained support by leading Southampton to a 22-game unbeaten streak, which sparked their run into the play-offs.
Part of his success came due to his intensity regarding possession of the ball. Martin believes that success is achieved through keeping hold of the ball and playing out of the back. His numbers also back up his philosophy. Before he was sacked, Martin had the second-highest completion percentage in the Premier League with 86.3% of passes completed.
This possession-based football helped Southampton thrive in the Championship, and it could work for Leicester, as well. However, if Martin were to steer Leicester back to the Premier League, his tactics would likely be scrutinized if he sticks to this plan. Playing from the back is dangerous in the top flight, as defenses are under constant pressure from opponents.
Looking forward for Leicester
Should Martin get the Leicester job, he'll be quick to implement his possession-based tactics. Leicester will need to bolster their squad, especially by finding a forward to replace Jamie Vardy. Another player likely to be leaving is Wilfred Ndidi, who has been consistent in assisting his teammates.
Leicester still has talents that can guide them through the Championship and regain their spot in the Premier League. Martin's tactics will be set in place throughout the summer, and the Leicester players will be working their hardest to please the new boss, who is known for his intensity.
One problem that Martin could face is the potential points deduction that Leicester might have. The team has been charged by the Premier League for a breach of financial rules, which could see Leicester lose a certain number of points in the Championship. Martin has a tough road in front of him, but he has proven that he can bring a Championship side back into the top flight.