Patson Daka has admitted there is “no hiding from the disappointment” after Leicester City’s relegation, as the Zambia international prepares to leave the club this summer.
The Chipolopolo forward spoke publicly for the first time since Leicester’s difficult campaign ended in relegation from the English Championship to League One, bringing a painful close to a season that fell far below expectations at the King Power Stadium.
In an emotional message shared on social media, Daka apologised to supporters and acknowledged the frustration surrounding the club’s collapse.
“No hiding from the disappointment,” Daka wrote.
“Relegation hurts everyone connected to this club. To the fans who backed us home and away, thank you. We’re sorry we couldn’t deliver what you deserved.”
The 27-year-old striker is among 10 senior players expected to depart Leicester this summer.
Daka’s contract is set to expire, ending a five-year stay in England that began with huge expectations after his high-profile move from FC Red Bull Salzburg in 2021. Leicester reportedly paid around €30 million for the striker, making him the most expensive Zambian player at the time.
Although Leicester struggled for consistency during his spell, Daka still produced moments of quality and finished his time at the club with 29 goals and 18 assists in 166 appearances across all competitions.
He also collected silverware during his first season in England, helping Leicester lift the FA Community Shield, while establishing himself as the club’s leading scorer in European competitions.
Daka’s future is already attracting attention ahead of the summer transfer window, with Spanish sides Sevilla and Valencia among the clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.
Despite Leicester’s disappointing campaign, the former Salzburg forward remains one of Zambia’s most recognised exports in European football and is expected to attract interest from clubs seeking experience, pace and attacking versatility.
