Leicester City's Premier League Champions: Where Are They Now?

Hey everyone, remember the fairytale? The Leicester City Premier League win in 2016 was one of those moments in football that just blew our minds, right? It was pure magic, a true underdog story that had everyone cheering for the Foxes. But what happened to that incredible squad, the heroes who defied all odds? Let's dive deep and see where those legendary players are today, shall we? It’s been a journey, and trust me, some of their paths have been pretty surprising!

The Architect of the Dream: Claudio Ranieri

Before we even talk about the players, we have to give a massive shout-out to the gaffer, Claudio Ranieri. He was the mastermind, the calm presence who somehow knitted this team together. His tactical nous, his belief in his players, and that famous motivational approach – often involving pizza! – were absolutely crucial. Ranieri, a true footballing gentleman, had managed big clubs before, but Leicester was something special. He took a team that had narrowly avoided relegation the season before and turned them into Premier League champions. After leaving Leicester, his career took him to various clubs, including Nantes, Fulham, and Roma. He even had a stint in Italy's Serie B with Cagliari, which he guided to promotion. Most recently, he managed Watford and then returned to his beloved Cagliari. His journey shows that age is just a number in management, and his impact on Leicester will forever be etched in football history. He proved that with the right guidance and team spirit, anything is possible. His Leicester tenure will always be remembered as one of the greatest managerial achievements in modern football, a testament to his skill and leadership.

The Rock at the Back: Wes Morgan

Captain Wes Morgan was the defensive colossus, the man mountain who led by example. His leadership, aerial prowess, and sheer determination were the bedrock of Leicester's success. He was everywhere, clearing lines, winning headers, and marshalling the defense with a commanding presence. Morgan was an absolute legend for the Foxes, a true warrior who embodied the team's fighting spirit. After the title win, he continued to be a vital player for Leicester, even lifting the FA Cup in 2021. He eventually retired from playing in 2021, ending an illustrious career that saw him become an icon at the King Power Stadium. He transitioned into a role at the club, focusing on ambassadorial duties and helping to inspire the next generation. His legacy at Leicester is immense; he's not just a player who won the league, but a symbol of resilience and what can be achieved with hard work and unity. He’s often seen at matches, still a beloved figure among the fans, a reminder of that glorious season. His journey from non-league football to Premier League glory is truly inspiring, a story that resonates with so many.

The Goalkeeping Guardian: Kasper Schmeichel

How can we forget Kasper Schmeichel? Son of a legend, he forged his own incredible legacy at Leicester. His shot-stopping, his commanding presence in goal, and those crucial saves throughout the title run were simply world-class. He was the last line of defense, and on countless occasions, he kept Leicester in games with breathtaking interventions. Schmeichel was a consistent performer, a true leader on the pitch who commanded his area with authority. He remained a cornerstone of the Leicester team for many years after the title win, helping them secure other silverware, including the FA Cup. In 2022, after over a decade of service, he moved to French club Nice, seeking a new challenge. His departure marked the end of an era for the Foxes. He's widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Leicester's history, and his contributions to that title win are immeasurable. His dedication and passion for the club were always evident, making him a fan favorite. He continues to play at a high level, proving his enduring quality and commitment to the sport.

The Heart of the Midfield: N'Golo Kanté

Ah, N'Golo Kanté. What can you say about this guy? He was an absolute phenomenon, a one-man engine in midfield. His energy, his tackling, his ability to win the ball back seemingly out of nowhere – it was unbelievable. Kanté was the unsung hero for many, tirelessly covering every blade of grass, breaking up opposition attacks, and initiating Leicester's own moves. He was the perfect player for Ranieri's system, allowing the more creative players to flourish. After the title win, his meteoric rise continued. He moved to Chelsea, where he became a crucial part of their midfield, winning numerous trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, Europa League, and even the Champions League. He is still considered one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Despite some injury struggles in recent years, his talent is undeniable. Kanté's journey from a relatively unknown player to a global superstar is a testament to his incredible talent and work ethic. He remains a beloved figure, not just at Leicester but across the football world, for his humility and electrifying performances. His impact transcended statistics; he simply made the team better in every conceivable way.

The Creative Spark: Riyad Mahrez

Riyad Mahrez was pure magic on the wing. His dribbling, his flair, his ability to conjure goals out of nothing – he was the spark that ignited so many attacks. Mahrez was the PFA Players' Player of the Year in that title-winning season, and deservedly so. He scored crucial goals and provided moments of individual brilliance that often broke the deadlock. His performances captured the imagination of fans worldwide. After his incredible spell at Leicester, where he became a club legend, Mahrez made a big-money move to Manchester City in 2018. At City, he continued to shine, becoming an integral part of their dominant side, winning multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and the Champions League. His technique and vision remain top-tier. Mahrez's journey is a prime example of a player reaching the pinnacle of the sport after an unexpected rise. He’s showcased incredible skill and consistency throughout his career, cementing his status as one of the most exciting wingers of his generation. His contributions to Leicester's fairytale will never be forgotten, and his continued success at a higher level is a testament to his enduring quality.

The Goal Machine: Jamie Vardy

And of course, Jamie Vardy. The man, the myth, the legend. Vardy was the spearhead of Leicester's attack, a relentless force with electrifying pace and a deadly eye for goal. His story is perhaps the most incredible of all – a player who was playing non-league football just a few years before becoming a Premier League champion and England international. Vardy's work ethic and hunger for goals were infectious. He broke the record for scoring in consecutive Premier League games that season, a feat that seemed almost impossible. He remained at Leicester after the title win, continuing to be their main goal threat and inspiring them to further success, including that memorable FA Cup triumph. Vardy’s longevity and consistent goal-scoring at the highest level are astonishing. He’s a true Leicester legend, a symbol of the club's improbable rise. Even now, he remains a key player for the Foxes, his pace and finishing still a threat. His journey from the lower leagues to the very top is the stuff of dreams and a constant source of inspiration for aspiring footballers everywhere. His commitment to Leicester, staying loyal through thick and thin, has earned him legendary status.

Other Key Contributors

While Vardy, Mahrez, Kanté, Morgan, and Schmeichel often steal the headlines, the entire Leicester City Premier League winning squad was filled with heroes. Players like Robert Huth provided crucial defensive steel, Danny Drinkwater controlled the midfield with his passing range, and Marc Albrighton offered tireless work on the wing. Leonardo Ulloa provided important goals and presence up front, while Shinji Okazaki offered energy and a unique goal-scoring threat. Even players who didn't feature as heavily played their part in creating the positive team spirit that was so vital. Many of these players moved on to new clubs after the historic season, seeking new opportunities or fulfilling career ambitions. Some stayed with Leicester, enjoying further success, while others found success at different clubs in England and abroad. Their collective effort, dedication, and belief in each other are what made that Premier League title win possible. It wasn't just about individual brilliance; it was about a unit, a family, that achieved the impossible together. The bonds formed during that season were unbreakable, and the memories created will last a lifetime for everyone involved. Each player, regardless of their playing time, contributed to the unique atmosphere and unwavering determination that defined that legendary Leicester City side. The legacy of this squad extends beyond trophies; it's about proving that with unity and relentless belief, underdog stories can indeed come true in the beautiful game of football.

The Legacy of the Foxes

The Leicester City Premier League winning squad is more than just a collection of players; they are a symbol of what can be achieved against all odds. Their story continues to inspire football fans and aspiring athletes around the world. It’s a reminder that talent, hard work, and a strong team spirit can overcome even the biggest challenges. The impact of that 2016 season cannot be overstated. It changed the perception of what's possible in football and gave hope to countless other clubs. The players have since gone on to have varied careers, some reaching even greater heights, while others have perhaps found different paths. But one thing is for sure: they will forever be immortalized as the Leicester City champions who conquered England. Their fairytale will be retold for generations, a timeless tale of a team that dared to dream and, against all expectations, made that dream a glorious reality. The bond between the players, the staff, and the fans during that period was electric, a shared experience of pure joy and disbelief that cemented their place in sporting history. The echoes of that triumph still resonate, a reminder of the magic that can happen when a group of individuals comes together with a singular, unwavering purpose. The Leicester City Premier League victory remains one of the most significant upsets in sports history, a testament to the unpredictable and wonderful nature of football.