Championship side Leicester City has issued a formal apology to its employees after abruptly informing them that December salaries would be paid on December 31, 2025—New Year's Eve—rather than before Christmas, breaking a long-standing club tradition. The decision, communicated via email on Thursday, December 18, 2025, has sparked significant unhappiness among staff, with reports of disrupted holiday plans and emotional distress.
The email, sent by interim managing director Kamonthip Netthanomsak and seen by multiple outlets, explained the change as an effort to "align payroll dates across the King Power Group," the Thai retail conglomerate that owns the club. Netthanomsak acknowledged the early payment as a "valued tradition" and expressed regret over the short notice: "I recognise that the earlier payment has become a valued tradition for many colleagues, and it is regrettable that I have been unable to relay this with greater notice to allow more time for your personal financial planning over the festive period. Please accept my personal apologies for any inconvenience this may cause you."
Historically, Leicester City has advanced December payroll to the last Friday or working day before Christmas, allowing staff—including players, coaches, and administrative personnel—to access funds for holiday expenses. This year, employees expected payment on Friday, December 19, only to learn of the delay the day prior. Sources described the timing as particularly disruptive, with some staff relying on the pre-Christmas wages for gifts, groceries, and family celebrations. Reports emerged of employees in tears, with festive arrangements "ruined" and concerns over insufficient funds for children's presents.
Leicester City has emphatically stated that the decision is unrelated to financial difficulties, insisting the club's position remains stable. The move is framed purely as an administrative harmonization within the broader King Power organization. However, the lack of advance warning—combined with the club's ongoing off-field challenges—has fueled speculation and criticism. Fans and commentators have questioned the optics, especially given Leicester's history of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) scrutiny, though no direct link has been established.
The club, relegated from the Premier League last season, currently sits eighth in the Championship table. Off-pitch turbulence has persisted, including executive changes: Netthanomsak was appointed interim managing director last month to support chairman Aiyawatt "Top" Srivaddhanaprabha, following the departure of long-serving CEO Susan Whelan. This payroll adjustment marks another point of contention amid efforts to rebuild fan trust and stabilize operations.
Staff reactions highlight broader frustrations. Anonymous sources told media outlets that the late notification exacerbated financial pressures during the cost-of-living crisis, with part-time and lower-paid employees particularly affected. One supporter relayed concerns via The Telegraph, noting friends at the club facing "no funds for Christmas" and families going without gifts.
The incident has drawn wider media attention, amplifying calls for better communication from the ownership. While King Power remains a multi-billion-dollar entity, the decision risks damaging employee morale at a sensitive time. Leicester has offered confidential support for those needing assistance, but no reversal has been announced.
This episode underscores challenges for clubs navigating group-wide policies while maintaining local traditions. As the Foxes prepare for a busy festive fixture schedule, the focus off the pitch remains on resolving internal discontent swiftly.
