Jon Rudkin: Leicester City’s Controversial Director of Football

Jon Rudkin: Leicester City’s Director of Football

Jon Rudkin is a key figure at Leicester City, playing a crucial role in the club’s daily operations.

As one of the longest-serving employees, he has been with the Foxes since 2003, steadily rising through the ranks.

Initially an academy coach, Rudkin progressed to become a senior figure at both Leicester and their Belgian sister club, OH Leuven.

However, his position appears to be under scrutiny, as many Leicester fans blame him for poor recruitment, lack of communication, and the club’s relegation in 2023, leading to calls for his departure.

But who is Jon Rudkin? Here’s everything you need to know about Leicester’s most-discussed football executive.

Who is Jon Rudkin?

Jon Rudkin is currently Leicester City’s director of football while also serving as the academy director for OH Leuven.

Age and Birthplace

Born on January 13, 1968, Rudkin hails from Leicestershire and was raised in the Wigston area.

Playing Career

As a teenager, Rudkin was part of Leicester City’s academy but was released at 16. He then continued playing at the non-league level, featuring for clubs such as Leicester United (formerly Enderby Town).

Leicester City Career

Rudkin joined Leicester in the late 1990s as a youth coach and was later promoted to head coach at the club’s former centre of excellence.

During this period, Leicester produced standout academy graduates like Emile Heskey and Matt Piper.

In June 2003, he was appointed academy manager, overseeing the development of players such as Andy King, Jeffrey Schlupp, and Ben Chilwell.

Under his leadership, Leicester’s academy gained Category One status.

His role evolved further after King Power’s takeover in 2010, initially under Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and now his son, Khun Top.

In December 2014, Rudkin was appointed director of football during Leicester’s first season back in the Premier League after a decade.

Rudkin became even more influential after Vichai’s tragic passing, assuming greater responsibility within the club.

He has been instrumental in managerial appointments and player negotiations, serving as Khun Top’s trusted advisor.

Jon Rudkin’s Net Worth

There is no publicly available information regarding Rudkin’s salary or net worth.