Huge Turnout For Ranieri's First Press Conference

- Claudio Ranieri makes first media address as manager of Leicester City Football Club.

Chief Executive Susan Whelan and Director of Football Jon Rudkin joined Claudio at the top table of Leicester City’s media suite to answer a host of questions about an exciting season ahead. 

Having met up with his new squad in Austria last week, the popular Italian was out on the training pitches at Belvoir Drive for the first time on Monday morning to put the team through their paces ahead of pre-season. 

That first pre-season test comes on Tuesday night away at Lincoln City, and in her opening address to the television cameras, our Chief Executive spoke positively about the prospect of Claudio taking charge of the team. 

“I’m sure Claudio needs little introduction to most of you in the room,” she said. “He’s a man of vast experience and knowledge and we’re very, very pleased to have him here with the Club. 

“He’s going to lead us into the next chapter of the Club’s history. We’re very proud to have him with us today. 

“I’m very confident in Claudio. We’ve recruited a manager who has the knowledge, passion and determination to continue the growth, development and success of this Club, and to fulfil the vision of the owners and everything that’s in the hearts and dreams of the fans of this Club. We’re very glad to have you with us and welcome you, Claudio.” 

With a glittering CV that has seen him take charge of some of Europe’s biggest clubs as well as a four-year spell at the helm of Premier League side Chelsea, Claudio’s pedigree is there for all to see. 

And despite having achieved so much already, he spoke with a passion and hunger about the new challenge that lies ahead with Leicester City. 

He told media: “I’m very excited to start the new season. Leicester is an old, good club in England and I’m very proud to be here. 

“I’m very happy to start the new season. I know Leicester were promoted and many people know Leicester’s battle was good [last season]. 

“The first part of the season wasn’t so good, and I don’t understand why. After the 5-3 against Manchester United, something changed. 

“If I remember well, in two months they lost all the matches and had one or two draws. At the end the character of the manager, players and fans made a miracle. 

“It was a miracle because the last part of the season was amazing. I want to know who is the true Leicester – the first or the second. I’m sure the second. 

“My goal is make one point more next season – this is our goal – improve season after season.”