After a 5-2 loss to Manchester United in the EFL Cup, Leicester City manager Steve Cooper gave a surprising take on Old Trafford, describing it as a pleasant venue to play in, rather than an intimidating one. Though some Manchester United fans might find this view frustrating, Cooper’s remarks highlighted a sense of comfort rather than awe in facing United at their iconic home ground.
United, meanwhile, responded impressively in their first match since Erik ten Hag’s departure, showing renewed energy and determination. The win advanced them to the EFL Cup quarter-finals, where they’ll take on Tottenham Hotspur—the team that many feel ended ten Hag’s tenure. United’s performance against Leicester included a mix of skillful play and fortunate moments, setting the stage for interim manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s early success.
Casemiro’s opening goal, a stunning shot from over 25 yards, set the tone for the evening. This was followed by Alejandro Garnacho’s goal, which put United ahead before Leicester’s Bilal El Khannouss brought it to 2-1. United pulled ahead again with a deflected free-kick from Bruno Fernandes and another close-range goal from Casemiro. Conor Coady kept Leicester in the game with a second goal, but Fernandes capitalized on a Leicester error to score United’s fifth in front of the Stretford End, securing the win.
Although Leicester’s defeat means elimination from the cup, Cooper won’t lose sleep over his trip to Old Trafford. He had expected a more daunting atmosphere but found it surprisingly welcoming. Adding to Leicester’s frustrations, Cooper now faces a touchline ban in their upcoming match against Ipswich Town, after being yellow-carded for protesting what he believed was an offside call on United’s second goal. Cooper argued that the linesman, accustomed to VAR, made a critical mistake that changed the momentum of the match.
With two wins in their last three Premier League games, Cooper has started to steady the Leicester side, but the pressure remains. Despite improvements, some fans are still cautious about his leadership. His recent comment on Old Trafford’s atmosphere, following a heavy loss, could deepen the divide among those fans hoping to see Leicester thrive on their return to the top flight.
