Lee Hendrie Believes Liam Manning Could Be Tempted by Leicester Approach
Former Premier League midfielder and current Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie believes Bristol City manager Liam Manning might consider leaving Ashton Gate if Leicester City come calling with a head-coach offer ahead of the new season.
Manning’s side ended their Championship season on a sour note last week, suffering a 3-0 defeat to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, crashing out of the play-off semi-finals 6-0 on aggregate. Despite that, the Robins had exceeded expectations with a sixth-place finish — their best league result in 17 years.
As preparations begin for the upcoming campaign and the summer transfer window, there are growing concerns among fans that Manning, aged 39, could be lured away following the team’s impressive progress under his leadership.
Manning has recently been linked with managerial roles at both Norwich City and Leicester City. While a move to Norwich seems less likely given their lower finish in the Championship — 11 points and seven places behind Bristol City — a switch to recently relegated Leicester could be a much more attractive proposition.
Hendrie: Leicester Move Could Appeal to Manning
Speaking to Football League World, Lee Hendrie praised Manning’s work at Ashton Gate and suggested that a Leicester offer might be too tempting to turn down. “He’s had a fantastic season, probably on a limited budget. His style of play would suit both Leicester and Norwich,” Hendrie explained.
He also questioned whether Bristol City could provide the investment required to take the next step forward. “No disrespect to the club, but if you’ve got a manager who’s brought some success, you have to wonder whether he can build on it further — and whether the club can support that.”
Hendrie believes Manning has the temperament to step up and succeed at a bigger club. “Managers always want to push on, win promotions, and lift trophies. He’s learned a lot and is clearly on the rise.”
While Hendrie noted Norwich’s situation may not be much different from Bristol City’s, he emphasized that Leicester would likely be the more enticing option due to their greater resources and ambition to bounce back to the Premier League.
No Official Approach Yet, But Leicester Interest Remains Possible
Though Manning has been linked with both clubs, no formal offer has been made. According to Bristol Live, the Robins haven’t received any approach from Norwich, and club officials are eager to retain the former Oxford United boss.
However, interest from Leicester remains a looming concern. The Foxes were relegated with five matches to go but are planning an immediate return to the Premier League. With Ruud van Nistelrooy expected to depart, they are on the lookout for a new head coach.
Leicester are expected to retain key players and benefit from Premier League parachute payments, giving them a strong platform to challenge for promotion. For Manning, the opportunity to take charge at the King Power Stadium — and potentially return to the top flight — may be difficult to refuse.
Whether Leicester make their move remains to be seen, but if they do, Manning could very well be the man they turn to.
