After almost a decade with the club, Leicester City chief groundsman John Ledwidge has confirmed his departure to join Manchester City.
The groundskeeper signed from Coventry City and quickly gained notoriety for the elaborate pitch designs utilized both during and before City’s 2016 Premier League-winning campaign. The next season’s designs were prohibited under league rules.
In a post on social media announcing his departure, Ledgwidge said: “After nearly 10 years, my time at Leicester is almost over and a new chapter awaits City FC. What a unique location it is, and it will always have a particular place in my heart. It’s all because of my team that we’ve created something so unique here.
A lengthy note was also sent, which read: “After 9 years with Leicester City Football Club, I have decided to move on and begin a new chapter as Head of Grounds for Manchester City and the larger City Football Group.
“I decided not to release this until the season had been decided out of respect for the club and city that had given me and my family so much. I’ve already made the decision to move on, and I’m aware that if I don’t communicate, it might be assumed that I’m giving up. In reality, though, this is far from the truth.
“This club, its incredible members, and my outstanding crew have accomplished so much during my tenure here, from five times being named the grounds team of the year to providing top-notch playing surfaces for our teams. Our department has become well-known thanks to us!
“One of the pleasures of my time here has been growing the team from 6 employees to over 50, as I genuinely think that without wonderful people, the amazing surfaces we manufacture wouldn’t exist! I want to thank everyone who has supported me on this trip since they are the reason for our success.
“My wife and I started a family in this wonderful city, and the impact the club, its members, and those close to me have had will live on forever in our hearts!”
Additionally, it is confirmed that Simon Gibson will join City as its Head of Grounds.
“My wife and I started a family in this wonderful city, and the impact the club, its members, and those close to me have had will live on forever in our hearts!”
Additionally, it is confirmed that Simon Gibson will join City as its Head of Grounds.