Leicester City sent brutal message amid Russell Martin manager ‘talks’ and Ruud van Nistelrooy exit

Leicester City sent brutal message amid Russell Martin manager ‘talks’ and Ruud van Nistelrooy exit

Leicester City Fans React Strongly to Russell Martin Managerial Rumours

Leicester City supporters have made their feelings clear amid reports linking Russell Martin to the managerial position at the King Power Stadium.

Speculation has emerged that Martin, recently dismissed by Southampton, is in discussions to succeed Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has endured a dismal stint in charge since taking the reins. Despite a slight uptick in performance following the club’s confirmed relegation after their 3-0 defeat to Liverpool on April 20, many fans are not keen on the idea of a new face—especially Martin—coming in.

Some fans have even suggested they’d prefer van Nistelrooy remain in charge rather than see Martin, who was sacked in December as Southampton slid back toward the Championship, take over. Supporters have taken to social media to express their frustration and concern over the potential appointment.

Here’s a glimpse of what fans are saying:

• FoxFreak criticized the whole situation, calling a potential Martin appointment “grossly disrespectful” to van Nistelrooy. They argued that while the Dutchman was in over his head, he still did his best. FoxFreak emphasized the need for a manager who adapts tactics to fit available players and nurtures academy talent—especially given Leicester’s financial situation.
• Sonofratae expressed disbelief, recalling Leicester’s dominant results over Southampton under Martin’s leadership and criticizing his lack of tactical flexibility.
• Icebee noted the growing disconnect between the club’s leadership and its fan base, lamenting the lack of communication and transparency in managerial decisions.
• DF pointed to Martin’s poor run at Southampton—14 losses in 16 games—and labeled him a poor imitation of Pep Guardiola, noting that his style hasn’t yielded results. They saw his potential hiring as another misstep by the board.
• Bluesky145 said appointing Martin would only further alienate the fans.
• Honest Johnny sarcastically questioned the logic behind the potential move, hinting at deeper boardroom motives and predicting Martin wouldn’t last the year.
• IanLCFC called for more pragmatic options, suggesting Sean Dyche or Lee Carsley instead.
• Gregsyboy acknowledged Martin’s attacking intentions but warned he would need solid backing.
• Hatch63 favored younger, progressive managers like Danny Rohl or someone like Lee Carsley who could promote youth.
• Honestlyspeaking simply dismissed the rumour with: “Shopping at Poundland.”
• Bluefox16 mocked the situation, noting Southampton’s apparent relief to have moved on from Martin while appointing Will Still as his replacement.
• Lifelongloyal offered some support for van Nistelrooy, arguing that many of the club’s issues may have been out of his control and that he deserves a chance to rebuild.
• Chwanobboh agreed that negativity may hinder van Nistelrooy’s chances going forward but still considered him far preferable to Martin.

As the managerial search continues, it’s clear that large sections of the fanbase remain wary of Russell Martin taking over—and their comments signal a growing frustration with the club’s leadership and direction.