Even before their own game, it’s official: Leicester City are returning to England’s top division around eleven months after their surprising relegation from the Premier League. This scenario was made possible early on by the outcome of another game
“We need one more win and then the job is done,” said Leicester coach Enzo Maresca after the Foxes’ recent 5-0 win over Southampton FC. On Friday evening, however, it became clear that this was no longer needed. Because promotion rivals Leeds United, led by Gladbach’s former coach Daniel Farke, lost 4-0 at Queens Park Rangers, promotion and the associated return to the Premier League after a year’s absence is already certain before their own game at Preston North End.
Twelve-point lead temporarily squandered
Leicester were relegated from England’s top flight to the Championship last season in a complete surprise, but nevertheless confirmed their role as favorites this season. With their new coach Maresca, who succeeded Dean Smith in 2023, the Foxes have impressed from the start of the current season and have not left the top three since matchday two.
From matchday eight to 38, the 2016 Premier League winners were even enthroned at the top of the table throughout, recently even surrendering a twelve-point lead after four defeats in six games. However, the Foxes fought their way back after dropping to third place and would have been able to celebrate promotion with a win of their own on Monday anyway.
Now the time has come four days earlier because their rivals from Leeds have clearly lost. The Foxes can celebrate in their last two games on Monday at Preston North End and a week later in their final home game of the season against Blackburn Rovers.
