Gary Rowett Appointed as Leicester City Manager

Leicester City have appointed Gary Rowett as their new manager on a contract until the end of the 2025/26 season, the club confirmed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The 51-year-old replaces Marti Cifuentes, who was sacked three weeks prior.

Rowett’s Return to Leicester

Rowett, a former Leicester player who made 57 appearances for the club between 2000 and 2002 , returns to the Championship side with the team facing a relegation battle. Leicester are currently third from bottom in the Championship, two points adrift of safety with 14 games remaining.

Previous Management Experience

The new Leicester manager has extensive experience in the Championship, having previously managed Birmingham City, Derby County, Stoke City, Millwall, and most recently Oxford United. He was relieved of his duties at Oxford in December 2025 after one win in ten games . He guided Oxford to safety in the 2024-25 season, finishing 17th in the table .

Immediate Tasks and Support

Rowett began training with the Foxes on Wednesday and his first game in charge will be at Stoke City on Saturday . He will be assisted by Callum Davidson, his former Foxes defensive teammate . Leicester chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha stated the club will provide Rowett with “every support” in their fight for survival .

Recent Challenges for Leicester City

Leicester have faced a tricky period, losing all four games under interim boss Andy King and recently being docked six points after being found guilty of breaching spending rules following a legal battle . The club has also experienced a poor run of form, with only two wins in their last eleven Championship fixtures .

“I’m really proud to be the new Leicester City manager and to have the opportunity to work with and lead a really talented group over the coming months,” Rowett said .