Wout Faes Officially Named Leicester City Captain in New Era
Leicester City has officially appointed Belgian centre-back Wout Faes as the club’s new captain, marking a bold and forward-looking leadership shift ahead of the 2025/26 season. The decision, confirmed by new manager, signals a renewed emphasis on character, resilience, and unity as the Foxes prepare for life back in the Premier League following their Championship title-winning campaign.
A Natural Leader
At just 27, Wout Faes brings a wealth of experience and an unrelenting presence on the pitch that has earned him the trust of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Known for his distinctive curly hair, combative playing style, and vocal leadership at the back, Faes has steadily become one of Leicester’s most reliable and passionate performers since joining from Reims in 2022.
Speaking after the announcement, Faes expressed immense pride in taking the armband:
“It’s a massive honour to be named captain of a club like Leicester City. Ever since I arrived, I’ve felt part of something special. To now lead this team into a new chapter, especially after what we achieved last season, is something I’ll give everything for.”
The Ruud van Nistelrooy Connection
New manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, appointed earlier this month, was quick to identify Faes as his captain. Ruud van Nistelrooy praised the defender’s professionalism, intensity, and influence both on and off the field, highlighting him as the ideal figure to embody the values of the club.
“Wout has shown all the attributes of a top leader,” Ruud van Nistelrooy said. “His attitude, his passion for the badge, and the way he sets standards every day made this a very straightforward decision. We want to build a team that plays with courage and identity — Wout represents all of that.”
Filling Big Boots
Faes succeeds former captain Jonny Evans, who departed the club in 2023 before a transitional year under Ricardo Pereira and other rotating skippers. This new appointment brings stability and clarity to a team eager to re-establish its presence in the top flight.
While comparisons to Evans — a Premier League winner and experienced international — are inevitable, Faes brings his own brand of leadership. Where Evans was calm and calculating, Faes is energetic and vocal, unafraid to rally the squad mid-match and lead by example in defensive duels.
Leadership by Example
One of Faes’ standout qualities is his relentless work ethic and willingness to put his body on the line. He topped the club’s defensive metrics last season in clearances, aerial duels won, and blocks, underlining his value beyond just morale.
Former manager Enzo Maresca once described him as “the heartbeat of the back line,” a sentiment echoed by teammates like Harry Souttar and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who have credited Faes with driving the squad’s competitive spirit on matchdays and in training.
Fans’ Favourite
Despite enduring some difficult moments during Leicester’s Premier League relegation season in 2022/23, Faes remained a consistent performer and quickly endeared himself to the fanbase. His passionate celebrations, willingness to front up after defeats, and emotional connection to the club made him a standout figure during the Championship campaign.
Social media was flooded with support after the announcement, with supporters praising the club’s decision. One fan wrote, “Wout bleeds blue — the perfect captain for the next chapter,” while another said, “This is a warrior who never gives less than 100%. Captain material all the way.”
Looking Ahead
With pre-season underway, Faes will now lead the team into what promises to be a pivotal campaign. Leicester, fresh off their Championship triumph, are targeting Premier League survival and gradual progress, with Cooper’s tactical rebuild already in motion.
The club has made early moves in the transfer window, bolstering the squad with a blend of youth and experience. Faes, meanwhile, is expected to play a central role in integrating new signings and maintaining dressing room cohesion.
His appointment is not just about matchday armbands — it’s a statement about culture, resilience, and identity. Under Faes’ captaincy, Leicester City looks determined to write a bold new chapter, one grounded in unity, belief, and fight.
Quick Profile: Wout Faes
- Age: 27
- Nationality: Belgian
- Position: Centre-back
- Joined Leicester: August 2022 from Stade de Reims
- 2024/25 stats: 42 appearances, 4 goals, 2 assists
- Strengths: Aerial dominance, leadership, tactical discipline
With the new Premier League season on the horizon, Wout Faes stands ready to lead the Foxes into battle — passionate, proud, and prepared for the challenge ahead.
