Leeds United have appointed Marcelo Bielsa as their new manager.
Leeds United have today confirmed the appointment of Marcelo Bielsa as their new manager, with the Whites pulling off a seemingly unthinkable move.
Owner Andrea Radrizzani chose to sack boss Paul Heckingbottom two weeks ago, despite only appointing the ex-Barnsley manager in February – and the Italian had big plans for the club.
Having seen Heckingbottom win just four games in 16, Radrizzani went saerching for a big-name appointment, and he has managed to pull it off today after the club announced a deal for Marcelo Bielsa.
Bielsa, 62, is one of the most legendary managers still active to this day, with his managerial career spanning more than 25 years and being known as the man who inspired the likes of Pep Guardiola and Mauricio Pochettino.
Famed for his innovative tactical approach with a 3-3-1-3 system, Bielsa spent six years in charge of his native Argentina before earning plaudits for his work with Chile, and then excelled with Athletic Bilbao too, guiding them to the 2013 Europa League final whilst gaining fans for their displays against Manch United.
‘El Loco’ spent just over a year in charge of Marseille, then had a bizarre two-day spell with Lazio, and returned to management last summer with Lille – but was sacked after just five wins in 19 games, meaning some are wondering whether the magic is still there with Bielsa.
Leeds fans are excited about the move, and Bielsa has now spoken to the club’s official website about heading to Elland Road, having penned a two-year deal with an option of a third.
Bielsa admitted that he is ‘delighted’ with the move, as he has always wanted to work in England, and whilst he has had opportunities, it was ‘impossible’ to turn down Leeds, and can’t wait to work with Radrizzani, Victor Orta and Angus Kinnear.
“I am delighted to accept the role of head coach at Leeds United,” said Bielsa. “It has always been my ambition to work in England and I have had several opportunities to do so during my career, however I have always felt it was important to wait for the right project to come along and so when a club with Leeds United’s history made me an offer, it was impossible to turn down.”
“I am excited for the challenge ahead and I look forward to collaborating with Victor, Andrea and Angus, as we work hard to achieve great things at this football club,” he added.
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