Leicester City Players’ Copenhagen Christmas Party Draws Criticism

Supporters have voiced criticism regarding Leicester City players’ decision to travel to Copenhagen for their Christmas celebration over the weekend. The team departed for Denmark directly following their 2-1 home loss to Chelsea on Saturday, a day prior to the dismissal of former manager Steve Cooper. This event was a pre-arranged Christmas party, which had received approval from the club. Copenhagen has historically served as a frequent location for the Foxes’ celebrations, with previous fancy dress parties held there in 2015 and 2019. A video circulating on social media, depicting the squad celebrating in a Copenhagen nightclub, has not yet been authenticated by BBC Sport. In the footage, an individual is seen seemingly holding a sign close to the players that reads: ‘Enzo I miss you’, a clear reference to former manager Enzo Maresca, who transferred to Chelsea during the summer. The identity of the person who displayed the sign and whether the players were cognizant of its presence remains uncertain. BBC Sport has sought comments from Leicester City and various player representatives regarding the matter. Matt Davis, the vice chairman of the Foxes Trust, acknowledged the players’ need to unwind but recognized that the public perception of the situation was unfavorable. He stated, “I think it is unwise. It is not helpful to be seen partying after another defeat.” Davis further commented, “From a fan’s perspective, I didn’t feel like doing anything on Saturday. I felt really dejected. That’s because of the passion [I have] for the club. You would hope it’s the same passion from the players.” He added, “It doesn’t forge good relations. It gives the impression of not caring – which I’m sure is not true – but I get they have a life outside of football.” Davis concluded by saying, “I don’t think an apology is owed, but it is about drawing a line in the sand and galvanising for the next manager.”