The real reason why Sean Dyche is the favourite to become the new Leicester City manager
Sean Dyche Emerges as Leading Candidate to Replace Ruud van Nistelrooy at Leicester City
Sean Dyche is now the frontrunner to take over as Leicester City manager, following reports confirming that Ruud van Nistelrooy will be dismissed on July 1, according to EFL Analysis Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey.
While Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Röhl had previously been linked to the role, recent developments suggest that Dyche has moved to the top of Leicester’s shortlist as they seek a new manager to lead the club into the upcoming season.
Should Dyche be appointed, he will face significant challenges — most notably the threat of a points deduction — but his candidacy will come as no surprise to many within the game.
Dyche’s Close Ties to Leicester Director Jon Rudkin
Dyche’s strong relationship with Leicester’s director of football, Jon Rudkin, appears to have played a key role in his emergence as the preferred candidate.
The two have known each other since their youth development days, a connection that Dyche himself acknowledged earlier this year on The Rest is Football podcast.
“When I came out of Watford and was living in Northampton, I only went to clubs in my area or where I knew people,” Dyche explained. “I went to Leicester because I knew Jon Rudkin really well from the youth days.”
Geography may also play in Leicester’s favour. Dyche was born in Kettering — not far from Leicester — and the chance to return closer to home could make the job even more appealing.
What Would a Dyche-Led Leicester Look Like?
Dyche is known for his no-nonsense, pragmatic approach to management, with a tactical preference for a traditional 4-4-2 formation.
While often labeled as a long-ball coach, his style is rooted in structured defending, disciplined pressing, and direct attacking play.
This could potentially impact players such as Jeremy Monga and Will Alves, who have flourished in a more modern 4-2-3-1 system.
However, Dyche’s emphasis on organization and resilience could draw comparisons to the Nigel Pearson era — a period fondly remembered by Leicester fans.
Should Dyche be appointed, his leadership and Premier League experience could prove invaluable as the club navigates a turbulent period and aims to re-establish stability both on and off the pitch.
