Pep Guardiola has told his Manchester City press conference – as per the Evening News – that he feels sorry for Marcelo Bielsa after his Leeds United exit. However, he does understand that Leeds were not playing very well.
Leeds decided to sack Bielsa on Sunday morning after just one point from a possible 15 – conceding 20 goals in that time. A 4-0 defeat to Spurs saw Leeds suffer their third consecutive loss, Illan Meslier letting 14 goals in.
Since then, Leeds have announced the arrival of American manager Jesse Marsch on a contract until the summer of 2025. Marsch has been tracked by Victor Orta for the last couple of years – and Orta believes he fits the bill.
Guardiola is renowned as a big fan of Bielsa, taking a lot from the Argentine and instilling it into his own style. The two have even met in Bielsa’s home country. He spoke about Bielsa’s exit in Monday’s press conference.
“I’m so sorry for him. His legacy is there, in the Leeds city and club, and I’m pretty sure with the players,“ Guardiola said, as per the Evening News. His influence is massive.
“Unfortunately, all managers are subject to results and maybe they were not good but the games played in three or four seasons at Leeds were spectacular to watch and I wish him all the best in future.”
Guardiola on Bielsa: Leeds right to pull the trigger on club icon?
Bielsa is a hero at Leeds. The man to take them back into the Premier League, and keep them there. But over the last few months, the Argentine has lacked the tactical maneuverability to get Leeds out of the mire.
The Argentine is renowned as being stubborn. One that does not believe in a plan B, because that introduces doubt in plan A. The preference of a smaller squad means Leeds struggle when there are injuries aplenty.
Bielsa has made mistakes. While he is a legend to Leeds fans, a more-pragmatic approach is needed – and some new signings were a must in January. Both, have been faults of Bielsa’s reign, over the last few months.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
