Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi backs manager Ruud van Nistelrooy amid Leicester’s relegation battle

Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has voiced his support for new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, praising the Dutchman’s approach and urging patience as the team navigates a challenging Premier League season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Van Nistelrooy took charge in late November, succeeding Steve Cooper, who was dismissed with Leicester hovering just two points above the relegation zone.

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The former Manchester United striker was handed a contract until June 2027 – his first major managerial role following a stint as interim boss at Old Trafford.

His reign began on a positive note, with the Foxes securing a 3-1 victory over West Ham United to end a six-match winless streak.

However, Leicester have since slumped to three consecutive defeats, including a 3-1 loss to Liverpool on Boxing Day, leaving the club entrenched in the relegation zone with only three wins from 18 matches.

Despite the setbacks, Ndidi remains optimistic about the team’s future under Van Nistelrooy.

Speaking to the Punch, the Nigerian midfielder said:

“It’s going well. He’s an amazing manager with an amazing personality who is trying to put the team together. He’s building up from there, and with time, we will get his philosophy and win games. There are still many games to play, and we are up for it.”

Ndidi, 28, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury and missed the Foxes’ recent defeats. Still, he is confident in Leicester’s ability to escape relegation.

“We have the quality to remain in the league. Things are not going the right way now, but we have the quality to get there with time,” he added.

Leicester returned to the Premier League this season after winning the Championship but now face the prospect of an immediate relegation, sitting 18th with just 14 points.

Away from the pitch, Ndidi continues to make a significant impact.

On Boxing Day, the Super Eagles star brought joy to approximately 2,000 children in Ajegunle, Lagos State, during an event at the Maracana Sports Centre.

Organized in partnership with local leaders and businessman Yemi Idowu, the gathering saw Ndidi personally serving food to the children despite his injury.