Leicester City are rapidly slipping towards relegation to the Championship, and in disappointing fashion.
The Foxes have lost 10 of their last 11 matches and now sit five points behind 17th-placed Wolves. Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has been overly cautious with his team selections, frequently opting for experienced players like Jordan Ayew and Bobby De Cordova-Reid. Meanwhile, creative talents such as Stephy Mavididi and Facundo Buonanotte have struggled to get a consistent run in the team.
Similarly, Leicester’s academy stars—who have been excelling in Premier League 2—have also been overlooked, despite their impressive performances.
The Starting XI Van Nistelrooy Should Be Using
Leicester’s academy is currently enjoying a golden era. While it was once rare to see an England youth international at the club, there is now an abundance of young talent emerging from Seagrave.
Among the most promising prospects is Jeremy Monga, who is making waves in the youth setup. Additionally, Jake Evans and Louis Page have been turning heads with their performances for the under-21s, earning recognition in England’s youth squads. Given their immense potential, Van Nistelrooy must integrate them into the first team without delay.
Here’s the ideal starting XI Leicester should field for the remainder of the season:
Hermansen; Coulibaly, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Soumare, Ndidi; Evans, El Khannouss, Monga; Vardy.
Monga and Evans Deserve to Start
While Louis Page might need more time before breaking into the first team, he should still be included in matchday squads and gradually introduced from the bench. However, both Jeremy Monga and Jake Evans are ready to start.
These two young attackers have been thriving in the reserve league, consistently outperforming much older and more experienced players. With Manchester City reportedly eyeing Monga for a summer move, Leicester may have only 11 more games to showcase his talent in a Foxes shirt. However, if given regular senior minutes, the England U16 captain might be convinced to stay and develop at the club.
Van Nistelrooy must take a bold step and give the academy stars their chance in the first team before it’s too late.
