Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca has never been shy about praising his players when they deliver on the pitch, but his latest choice for “best performer” may surprise many Foxes fans. In a season full of standout displays from key names such as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Patson Daka, and captain Ricardo Pereira, Maresca singled out a player many had considered more of a squad option than a star — Belgian midfielder Dennis Praet.
Speaking after Leicester’s recent league win, Maresca explained that while goals and assists often grab headlines, he values intelligence, discipline, and consistency just as much. “Football is not only about scoring or creating goals,” the Leicester boss said. “For me, Dennis was our most important player today. He kept us calm, dictated the tempo, and allowed the others to shine.”
Praet, who has sometimes struggled to hold down a regular starting spot at the King Power Stadium, put in a quietly excellent display in midfield. He completed more than 90 percent of his passes, recovered possession several times, and linked play between defense and attack with composure. It was the kind of performance that might fly under the radar for the casual fan but would delight any manager who values control and structure.
Leicester supporters have been particularly focused on the attacking prowess of Daka and Jamie Vardy, who have shared goals between them this campaign. Dewsbury-Hall has been another fan favorite, driving forward from midfield and contributing both goals and assists. But Maresca’s comments highlight the importance of players who perform the “dirty work” — pressing, covering passing lanes, and keeping possession under pressure.
Praet’s selection as best performer could also signal a tactical shift for Leicester going forward. Maresca, a coach heavily influenced by Pep Guardiola’s positional play philosophy, clearly values midfielders who can dictate tempo and help the team control matches. With the Championship promotion race heating up, Leicester’s ability to dominate possession and prevent chaotic, end-to-end games could be crucial.
Some fans were surprised by Maresca’s statement on social media, with a few admitting they hadn’t fully appreciated Praet’s contribution during the match. Others applauded the manager for recognizing the less glamorous side of football. “That’s why he’s the coach,” one fan posted. “We just see the goals. He sees the whole picture.”
For Praet himself, this praise could be a confidence boost. The 30-year-old has endured injury setbacks and loan spells in recent seasons, but when fit, he offers Leicester a unique blend of experience and technical quality. If he continues to earn Maresca’s trust, he could play a vital role in Leicester’s push to return to the Premier League.
Ultimately, Maresca’s choice reminds fans that football is a team game where not every hero makes the highlight reel. In a season where Leicester have lofty ambitions, performances like Praet’s — steady, intelligent, and understated — might prove just as valuable as the spectacular goals that light up the King Power.
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