Leeds now risk upsetting Rodrigo as talks are held to hire 49-year-old as manager – Our View

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Leeds now risk upsetting Rodrigo as they hold discussions to hire Nuno Espirito Santo as a replacement for Jesse Marsch.

What’s the story?

Well – according to The Athletic – internal talks between Andrea Radrizzani and Victor Orta are being held at Elland Road over the potential appointment of Nuno.

The 49-year-old is currently in charge of Al-Ittihad, but is said to be keen on a return to the Premier League.

If an agreement between Leeds and Nuno does materialise, then it could upset Rodrigo.

The Spain international worked with the Portuguese tactician during his 62 games in charge of Valencia from 2014 to 2015.

It was a difficult period for Rodrigo, who only scored five goals in 44 outings under Nuno as he found himself shacked by the defensive style of play.

Valencia fans certainly did not approve of this playing style, often jeering and booing Nuno at the Mestalla before he resigned in November 2015.

Rodrigo admitted that this atmosphere had a negative impact on him and his teammates, with Plaza Deportiva quoting the striker as saying: “The people were not with him. Even if we won, lost or tied, people asked him to leave. Your own fans shouting against your coach is not easy and it ends up affecting the players.”

So, with Nuno’s presence in Valencia seemingly affecting the 31-year-old’s personal form as well as morale, we doubt he would be too pleased at a reunion, especially as he is currently enjoying an excellent campaign.

As things stand, Rodrigo is the top scorer at Leeds this season with 12 goals in 22 appearances.

Keeping Rodrigo happy is important for Leeds

Some may argue that it isn’t all about Rodrigo in the hunt to replace Marsch.

However, the Spaniard has scored three times as many goals as the next player at Elland Road this season, and he will be vitally important when he returns from his ankle injury.

Rodrigo’s 12 strikes easily put him clear of Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto and Luis Sinisterra, who all have four goals each to their name.

If Leeds want to pull themselves away from their currently perilous position of 17th in the Premier League – one point above the drop zone – then keeping their top scorer happy would be a sensible thing to do.