Leicester City manager Maresca is prepared to allow Iheanacho, Ndidi, and other key players to depart

The Italian manager successfully steered the Foxes back to the Premier League within a year following their unexpected relegation from top-flight football.

Maresca stressed Leicester City’s imperative to compete strongly and avoid another unforeseen relegation in the upcoming season, underscoring the necessity of strengthening their squad.

The Championship is incredibly challenging and protracted, with any team capable of defeating another,” Maresca remarked, emphasizing the rigorous nature of both the Championship and the Premier League. “We must be prepared and ready to compete. Certainly, we need to address matters concerning the squad, without a doubt,” he stated, as cited by Leicester Mercury.

Within the club, two Nigerian players, Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, have contracts expiring at the end of the season. There are no indications of the club renewing Iheanacho’s contract. Ndidi has reportedly attracted interest from La Liga sides Sevilla and Barcelona, as well as Turkish side Galatasaray, due to his stellar performances for the Foxes.

However, Maresca indicated a readiness to let go of these pivotal players due to financial considerations, provided that the club can secure adequate replacements.

The Italian coach further stated, “I’m indifferent to this aspect (selling players for financial reasons). If we lose key players, it’s crucial that we acquire suitable replacements. If selling players is necessary to address any issues, it’s not an obstacle as long as we can bring in new talent.

“Our aim is to maintain competitiveness. I’m determined not to find ourselves in the same position as we were a year ago. That’s the primary objective.”