Leeds have finally appointed Angus Kinnear at Elland Road.
Leeds United managing director Angus Kinnear has described new boss Marcelo Bielsa on Sky Sports News as a “football romantic” after the Argentine signed a three-year to become the club’s manager at Elland Road.
Bielsa, 62, joins the Whites with a CV that boasts spells with Argentina, Lazio, Chile, Lille, Marseille and Athletic Bilbao, on a three-year contract – replacing Paul Heckingbottom.
The Whites have been in talks for quite some time to land the Argentine manager, who becomes owner Andrea Radrizzani’s fourth manager since taking over last year.
Kinnear spoke of how he and Radrizzani travelled to Argentina to strike a deal with Bielsa, and stated that Bielsa understands the potential of Leeds and where they belong – the Premier League.
“Bielsa is well regarded in the game,” Kinnear said. He could have had his pick of clubs from the top divisions but we’re delighted he’s chosen Leeds. Clearly we wanted the manager to be in place and get the decision is right.
“There were a number of meetings, starting with Victor [Orta] and Andrea, then me and Andrea flew out to Argentina.
“One of those things which is exciting, is that he is excited. He sees the potential and is a football romantic. He knows it would be a great way to top off his CV by getting Leeds promoted.”
Leeds finished in a disappointing 13th place last season in the Championship, despite having pre-season expectations of finishing in the top six of England’s second tier.
It remains to be seen how much power Bielsa will have when it comes to transfers, with Orta still holding the position of director of football at Elland Road. Leeds are yet to make a single signing this summer.
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