What Leicester City Fans Can Expect from Graham Potter: Chelsea Expert’s Candid Assessment of the Former Blues Manager

Graham Potter Emerges as Favorite for Leicester City Job

 

Steve Cooper is widely regarded by Leicester City fans as one of the club’s worst-ever managers, with many believing he would have led them to relegation.

 

Now, the Foxes’ hierarchy faces the critical challenge of finding a manager to stabilize the team and restore their fortunes.

 

Among the candidates linked to the role are Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy and West Bromwich Albion boss Carlos Corberán.

 

However, former Chelsea and Brighton manager Graham Potter has emerged as the frontrunner to take charge at the King Power Stadium.

 

Here’s what Leicester fans can expect from Potter, based on insights from James Shearman, a writer for The Chelsea Chronicle, who reflected on Potter’s tenure at Stamford Bridge.

1. New Manager Bounce

 

A common phenomenon in football, the “new manager bounce” often sees teams enjoy a surge in form following a change in leadership.

 

Potter’s brief stint at Chelsea showed that he is capable of delivering this immediate uplift.

 

“Potter’s spell at Chelsea was so short-lived that people assume it was a disaster, but that’s not true,” says Shearman.

 

“He had the Blues playing excellent football and winning games right after his appointment.

 

“He went unbeaten in his first nine games, winning six, including Champions League victories over AC Milan (3-0 at home, 2-0 away) and a 2-0 Premier League win against Aston Villa.

 

“If Potter takes over at Leicester, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them beat Brentford on Saturday and West Ham on Tuesday.”

 

2. Style of Play

 

Leicester’s players and fans were discontented with Cooper’s direct playing style, which contrasted sharply with the possession-based football introduced by Enzo Maresca.

 

Potter’s tactical approach, however, is more aligned with Maresca’s philosophy.

 

“There are differences between Potter and Maresca, but their principles are similar,” Shearman explains.

 

“Both prioritize playing out from the back and maintaining possession, which is usually more appealing to fans and players.

 

“My concern is whether Leicester’s squad has the quality to fully implement Potter’s methods. The owners might need to invest in a ball-playing defender or creative midfielder to support his system.”

3. Personality

 

A manager’s personality often plays a crucial role in their success. While Potter has shown tactical acumen, his relatively understated demeanor has been seen as a drawback in certain roles.

 

“The Chelsea job isn’t for everyone,” says Shearman. “It’s one of the biggest and toughest clubs to manage due to its high expectations and ruthless environment.

 

“Potter struggled at Chelsea because he lacks the charisma of figures like Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte, or Carlo Ancelotti.

 

He doesn’t have that larger-than-life personality that commands attention.

 

“However, Leicester is a different environment—more akin to Brighton, where Potter thrived.

 

His personality should not be a problem at Leicester, but fans may need to accept that he won’t deliver fiery speeches or show much outward passion.”

 

What Leicester Fans Can Expect

 

Potter’s potential appointment could bring a renewed sense of optimism to Leicester City.

 

His ability to deliver a “new manager bounce,” his possession-based style of play, and his suitability for a club of Leicester’s stature make him an appealing choice.

 

However, his success may hinge on squad quality and possible reinforcements in the January transfer window.

 

While Potter’s reserved personality may not resonate with all fans, his proven track record at Brighton suggests he could excel at Leicester if given the right tools and support.

 

If appointed, Potter’s challenge will be to instill his philosophy and guide the Foxes away from their current struggles.