Despite the high expectations Patson Daka’s journey at Leicester City has yet been far from spectacular, especially regarding the salary which is estimated at approximately โฌ4,5 million.
Leicester City’s High-Priced Enigma
Patson Daka, Zambian striker, arrived at Leicester City in 2021 after two successful seasons with RB Salzburg. Heralded as one of the brightest talents on the European football scene, the 25-year-old forward’s time in England has not quite lived up to the hype. Daka’s struggle to secure a spot in the starting lineup has been a perplexing conundrum for Leicester City fans.
A Costly Investment
Daka’s move to Leicester came with significant financial implications. The six-year contract he signed in 2021 will see him earn โฌ13,442,000 over its duration, excluding bonuses. In the 2023-2024 season, Daka is set to earn โฌ4,478,000, a staggering โฌ86,100 per week.
In comparison, Daka’s previous salary at Salzburg was a modest โฌ406,230 per year, highlighting the significant financial commitment the English club made to secure his services. Despite his high salary, his performances on the field have left fans and pundits underwhelmed.
Declining Market Value
In 2021, Transfermarkt valued Daka at โฌ22 million, but Leicester City paid a whopping โฌ8 million more for his services than the Austrian club’s valuation. Since then, his market value has decreased, and he is currently valued at โฌ15 million. A far cry from the initial investment, this decrease underscores the challenges he has faced in the Premier League.
Underwhelming Performance Stats
Daka’s on-field contributions for Leicester have not matched his potential. In his debut season, he struggled to find a consistent spot in the starting lineup, facing competition from the experienced Jamie Vardy. While he often played in Europa League matches, his domestic performance left much to be desired.
During the 2021/2022 season, he stunned in Europe, scoring six goals and becoming the team’s top scorer on the international stage. However, his Premier League performance was lackluster, with only four goals and four assists in the 2022/2023 season.
Leicester City’s Struggles
Leicester City’s overall performance has mirrored Daka’s struggles on the field. In the 2022/2023 season, the club won only nine out of 38 games and finished 18th, ultimately being relegated from the Premier League.ย
A Glimmer of Hope
Leicester City is determined to return to the Englandโs top-tier and has appointed Italian manager Enzo Maresca to lead the charge. Maresca, with previous experience in guiding teams to higher divisions, is tasked with turning the club’s fortunes around.
While Daka is yet to establish himself as a regular starter, the competition within the squad is fierce, with veterans like Jamie Vardy and Kelechi Iheanacho proving their worth. Daka faces competition not only from experienced players but also from Leicester’s newcomer, Stef Mavididi.
International Success
Despite his struggles at the club level, Daka continues to excel for the Zambian national team. His recent brace in a friendly match against Uganda showcased his capabilities. However, this success has yet to earn him a consistent spot in Leicester’s starting lineup.
Brendan Rodgers, the former Leicester coach, had once suggested that players are given a year to adapt to English football. Interestingly, Daka’s most successful season was his debut, leaving fans hopeful that he can still prove his worth in the Premier League.
As Leicester City strives for a return to the top-flight, all eyes are on Patson Daka as he seeks to justify the club’s significant investment and revive his career in English football.
