The current Leicester squad taking to the hallowed turf week in week out are at a new low. They’re devoid of creativity and struggle to defend. Without Jordan James and Abdul Fatawu, it’s hard to imagine where this squad would currently be. It’s no surprise they are 22nd in the league, especially as they are so inconsistent in games. Therefore, it’s easy to see why change is on the horizon.
Abdul Fatawu Heads List of Likely Departures
Time for change
As reported by John Percy, City are returning to their ‘sell a star player’ policy every summer. The likes of Riyad Mahrez, Harry Maguire, Ben Chilwell and Wesley Fofana all departed over several summers, which helped the Foxes with PSR, but also allowed them to make changes to the squad in increments. Though it’s also important to preface that brilliant pieces of business also helped this approach work. However, it came to an end in 2021, when the Foxes opted for an ambitious play in the market. They brought in the then highly-thought-of duo in the form of Boubakary Soumare and Patson Daka, whilst no star departed. This all didn’t pay off when the club missed out on European football for the following season.
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However, it seems to be coming back. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was the marquee exit of 2024, and this summer, another star seems set to leave. Percy reported that Fatawu is set to leave, with many admirers ready to pounce. The Ghanaian winger has had an inconsistent campaign, which is to be expected when he is doubled up on most games. Despite this, he’s still shown his quality on plenty of occasions. With 16 goal contributions this season, it’s fair to say he’s done his best with the poor circumstances.
Furthermore, Daka is also set for a move away from the East Midlands. He isn’t expected to receive a new contract, a result that was likely given the player’s struggles this season. The Zambian has found the net just four times this season, and is continuing to struggle in English football. It’s a shame, as there was so much hype when he initially arrived. Over time, he has shown glimpses of the heights he can reach, as seen by the four goals away, against Spartak Moscow. However, it hasn’t worked out, and he now has an opportunity to lead the line elsewhere.
How does this affect Leicester?
Daka’s exit is definitely the right time for both parties to move on. Leicester are crying out for a new centre-forward who is proven and complete. Whilst it is a big ask, it will be interesting to see how the club do act in the transfer window. For the last few seasons, a focal point up top has been missing, which led to the over-reliance on an ageing Jamie Vardy. Now that this period is over, a young, hungry striker could do the club wonders.
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As for Fatawu, it’s a surprise to nobody that he could be on his way out. The winger is way too good for this side and will be looking for a move either to the Premier League or across Europe. He has the attributes to make the step up, though his efficiency is questionable. He takes on many audacious efforts, which can come off like the Ipswich halfway line goal, but a lot of the time, it doesn’t. However, it’s key to remember he’s been coming up against several defenders at a time and receives little support or options. In the right environment, he’s the type of profile that could flourish.
Therefore, Fatawu will certainly be missed, but it could open the door to new options. Jake Evans, a talented forward currently playing in League One, could be an option next season. Furthermore, Jeremy Monga may assume a more important role, though he may also depart. The club has talented youngsters that they can lean on, even more so if their possible relegation to League One does come true. Whilst these players aren’t currently at the level of Fatawu, utilising them more or bringing in a more proven wide-man could be the way forward.
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