Riyad Mahrez and Leicester City’s Dramatic Title Defence Collapse

Leicester City’s 2016/17 Premier League campaign was a stark contrast to their fairytale title win. The team, led by Riyad Mahrez, struggled immensely after their historic achievement. They finished the season in 12th place, a dramatic 37 points fewer than their championship total.

This collapse stands as one of the most significant title defence declines in football history. The departure of key players and a loss of collective form saw the Foxes fighting near the relegation zone for much of the season.

The Unraveling of a Football Miracle

The Foxes’ title defence began poorly and never recovered. They won just five of their first 25 league matches. This put them in a serious relegation battle by February.

A key factor was the summer sale of midfield linchpin N’Golo Kanté to Chelsea. His absence left a massive void in the team’s structure. According to Reuters, the team lacked the same defensive solidity and ball-winning capability that had been fundamental to their success.

Manager Claudio Ranieri, the architect of the miracle, was dismissed in February 2017. The decision shocked the football world. Craig Shakespeare took over and guided the team to a mid-table finish, but the magic was gone.

Mahrez’s Struggle Under Increased Pressure

Riyad Mahrez, the PFA Player of the Year, found the follow-up season far more difficult. Opponents now marked him much more tightly. He had less space and time to perform his signature dribbles and passes.

His statistics reflected this challenge. He scored fewer goals and provided fewer assists than during the title-winning campaign. The Algerian winger could not single-handedly replicate his previous, extraordinary form.

The entire team faced a psychological hurdle. The underdog spirit that fueled their run was replaced by the pressure of expectation. Every opponent treated a match against Leicester as a cup final.

A Lasting Legacy and a Harsh Lesson

Despite the difficult season, Mahrez’s legacy at Leicester was already secure. His brilliance during the 2015/16 season inspired a generation of players and fans. It proved that with belief and talent, anything is possible in sport.

The story serves as a powerful reminder of football’s volatility. Success is incredibly fragile. Maintaining peak performance requires constant adaptation and a bit of luck.

For Mahrez, the experience was a valuable lesson in resilience. He eventually earned a move to Manchester City, where he continued winning trophies. His journey from Leicester’s collapse back to the pinnacle of the game showcases his professional strength.

The dramatic fall of Leicester City’s title defence, led by Riyad Mahrez, remains a cautionary tale in modern football. It highlights how quickly fortunes can change at the highest level. The 2016/17 season proved that even the most brilliant miracles require constant work to sustain.

Thought you’d like to know

What happened to Leicester City after they won the Premier League?

Leicester City struggled significantly the following season. They finished in 12th place, a massive 37 points fewer than their title-winning total, and parted ways with manager Claudio Ranieri.

Why did Riyad Mahrez leave Leicester City?

Mahrez sought a new challenge after establishing himself as a top player. He eventually transferred to Manchester City in 2018, where he joined a squad consistently competing for major trophies.

How many goals did Mahrez score in Leicester’s title season?

Riyad Mahrez was instrumental, scoring 17 goals and providing 11 assists in the league. His outstanding performances earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.

Who managed Leicester after Claudio Ranieri was sacked?

Caretaker manager Craig Shakespeare took charge of the team following Ranieri’s dismissal. Shakespeare initially improved results and was later given the job on a permanent basis.

What was the main reason for Leicester’s decline?

The sale of N’Golo Kanté was a major blow to the team’s balance. The collective pressure of being champions also seemed to affect the players’ performances throughout the season.