Steve Cooper, the former manager of Nottingham Forest, has been named as the new head coach of Leicester City, the club announced on Thursday.
"Leicester City Football Club can today confirm the appointment of Steve Cooper as our new First Team Manager ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League season. Steve, 44, has agreed a three-year contract," the club said in a statement.
Cooper steps into the role that was previously held by Enzo Maresca, who departed for Chelsea to fill their managerial vacancy earlier this month.
Under Maresca's guidance, the 44-year-old successfully led Leicester, the 2016 Premier League champions, back to the top flight following a single season in the Championship.
"We are delighted to welcome Steve to Leicester City," said Leicester City Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha in a statement. "His vision for the team, including his ability to develop players and implement a dynamic style of play, is very much aligned with our aspirations for the Club.
"As a leader, he has the ability to build on the strong relationship that has been forged between our fans and our team, strengthening a bond that will be vital to us re-establishing the Club in the Premier League."
Steve Cooper successfully led Nottingham Forest to promotion in 2022, securing their place in the Premier League. However, the club struggled in the top flight, finding themselves in a precarious position near the bottom of the table. As a result, Cooper was dismissed from his role as manager in December 2023, with Forest facing a serious threat of relegation.
Following Cooper's departure, Nuno Espirito Santo was appointed as the new manager of Nottingham Forest.
"I am really excited and proud to be appointed Leicester City's First Team Manager," said Welshman Cooper. "This is a fantastic club with a rich history and passionate supporters. I am excited to work with such a talented squad and I'm looking forward to the challenge of achieving our shared ambitions in the Premier League."
