Former Zambian goalkeeper and 2012 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Kennedy Mweene, has advised Leicester City’s Patson Daka to remain with the Foxes despite limited game time, according to Bola News.
Mweene, Zambia’s most-capped player, draws parallels with his own career, suggesting that Daka could experience a similar trajectory to his own.
Daka’s stint at Leicester City has been marked by sporadic appearances, with only one start in 19 league games before December 9, 2023. Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca’s preference for Jamie Vardy and Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho as the leading choices for the frontline left Daka on the bench 10 times, and he was omitted from the squad eight times.
The situation prompted speculation among fans that Daka might seek opportunities elsewhere to secure regular playing time. However, a twist of fate occurred when both Iheanacho and Vardy were sidelined due to illness and injury, respectively. Maresca turned to Daka, who seized the opportunity by scoring two consecutive goals against Plymouth and Millwall, showcasing his prowess in the last three Championship games with three consecutive starts.
In light of Daka’s recent performances and uncertainties surrounding his future at the club, Maresca expressed uncertainty about the striker’s status ahead of the upcoming January transfer window. Despite this, Maresca emphasized that Daka remained an integral part of the squad, promising more game time after the Zambian forward’s impactful displays.
During the previous transfer window, Daka had attempted moves to AFC Bournemouth and AC Milan, but both deals collapsed on deadline day. Kennedy Mweene, offering guidance based on his own experiences, advised Daka to stay at Leicester City and wait for the club’s return to the Premier League. According to Transfermarkt Daka’s current market value is €14 million.
“Leicester City is coming back to the Premier League; the only thing I will say is that if there is no team and it’s just rumors, he must stay put at Leicester City,” Mweene asserted. “He will come back to the EPL [English Premier League]. I did the same thing when I was playing for the Free State Stars when we went down. I was playing on the national team but in the second tier until the team came back in the Premier League.”
Mweene’s counsel suggests a patient approach for Daka, encouraging him to remain committed to Leicester City and await the club’s return to the top flight, where he can continue to showcase his talent on the Premier League stage.
