Marcelo Bielsa’s departure from Leeds United has been confirmed, with Jesse Marsch in line to replace the Argentine.
In an official statement issued on the club’s website, Leeds United have confirmed that they have parted ways with manager Marcelo Bielsa. The Argentine leaves the club on a mutual agreement with the Whites expected to hire Jesse Marsch as his replacement.
Bielsa, who took over the reins at the club in 2018, was expected to leave Leeds United at the end of the season when his contract expired. It had prompted the board, led by sporting director Victor Orta and owner Andrea Radrizzani to scour the market for potential replacements. The Whites had even identified three options, including former AS Roma manager Paulo Fonseca.
However, it appears Leeds United were not keen on waiting until the end of the season for the new appointment and have fast-tracked the departure of Bielsa amid fears over the prospect of relegation come May.
Currently dawdling in the 16th position of the league table, the Yorkshire outfit are dangerously close to the drop zone following a run of four straight losses. While injuries to star players such as Kalvin Phillips, Liam Cooper and Patrick Bamford have played a key role, the team has looked worryingly open, having conceded more goals than any other side in the division.
— Leeds United (@LUFC) February 27, 2022
Leeds United’s most recent mishap saw them lose 4-0 to Tottenham, meaning the team has now conceded ten goals in the last two matches. And with Burnley and Newcastle United seemingly enjoying an upturn of fortunes, time is surely running out for the Peacocks, which has prompted them to take action.
Bielsa, nevertheless, holds legendary status at Elland Road, having enjoyed much success after joining the club in 2018. In three and a half years, the Argentine managed to take Leeds into the Premier League for the first time in 16 years and has infused a footballing philosophy largely synonymous with the local spirit and ideology.
“With Marcelo as our head coach, we had three incredible campaigns and the good times returned to Elland Road. He changed the culture of the club and brought a winning mentality to us all. The moments created, particularly in the 2019/20 season and winning promotion to the Premier League, will of course live long in all our memories, myself and the fans included,” owner Radrizzani said in the official statement.
While his spell at Elland Road has come to an end, Marcelo Bielsa has created a legacy that cannot be erased any time soon.
