LIVE
...

Follow us on

Soccer Transfer News

Leeds’ latest transfer activity shows how Marcelo Bielsa has raised the standards

Kevin Barnes - CameraSport/CameraSport via Getty Images
Follow us on Google Discover

Marcelo Bielsa has made a huge impact on and off the pitch since arriving at Elland Road to take charge of Championship underachievers Leeds United.

A general view of the Billy Bremner statue outside Elland Road during the Pre Season Friendly match between Leeds United and Everton at Elland Road on August 1, 2015 in Leeds, England.

Leeds United appeared to be stockpiling players from all over the world last season with director of football Victor Orta bringing in a whole host of new signings both for the first team and the academy.

But Leeds look a different team both on and off the pitch this season and, under Marcelo Bielsa, it is becoming increasingly clear that mediocrity will not be accepted.

In the last week, January signings Laurens de Bock and Yosuke Ideguchi were both shipped out, joining Oostende and Greuther Furth respectively on loan deals.

Yosuke Ideguchi (C) of Japan celebrates scoring his side's second goal during the FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between Japan and Australia at Saitama Stadium on August 31, 2017 in...

The forgotten youngster Adrian Balboa is expected to return to the Spanish lower leagues, while Deportes CMM claim that Oriol Rey is on his way out too despite making the bench against Swansea City on Tuesday.

The likes of Jay-Roy Grot, Felix Wiedwald, Andy Lonergan and Pawel Cibicki have already gone this summer. And while some will warn against Bielsa selling too many players and leaving himself short, the decision to get rid of so many who are simply deemed not good enough highlights the increasing high standards at Elland Road.

And this can only benefit Leeds long term if they are to put 14 years in the Football League behind them under the famously demanding Bielsa.

Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa during the Sky Bet Championship match between  City and Leeds United at Liberty Stadium on August 21, 2018 in Swansea, Wales.