MARCELO BIELSA has finally revealed why he has not returned to Leeds since being sacked four years ago.
The Argentine manager is back in England for the very first time since his dismissal from Elland Road in February 2022 which he now admits was “justified”.
Marcelo Bielsa is now the head coach of UruguayCredit: Getty
Bielsa is a cult hero among Leeds fans for what he achieved in YorkshireCredit: Getty
The 70-year-old is a legendary figure in Yorkshire after guiding the club back to the Premier League in 2020 and a large number of Leeds fans have bought tickets for Uruguay’s friendly at Wembley against England tomorrow.
Bielsa was sacked after his team leaked 14 goals in the space of three Premier League games with the final straw being a 4-0 home loss to Tottenham.
Speaking about his Leeds exit for the first time, he said: “I have not been back because of the feelings of nostalgia. Sometimes we have to resist the feeling of going back and I want to keep those feelings of nostalgia.
“Being at Leeds gave me the most beautiful memories and one of the best gifts football has given me.
“The power that English football really has is based on the fans and the unconditional love of the supporters to build a great league.
“This English league would not be what it is if it were not for how their fans feel. For me, I was at Leeds for four years. But in three games, my team conceded 14 goals and it would be very difficult to survive that. I always understood it (getting the sack) as justified.”
Bielsa led Leeds to ninth in 2021 but he was dismissed the following season after a poor run of results. However, he has one of the highest win percentage records in their history – he won 81 of his 170 matches for a 47.65 per cent success rate.
But his legend was created by other factors such as the way he transformed an underperforming club and revolutionised the style of play.
Even when Leeds have tried to contact Bielsa – they asked whether they could re-name the training ground in his honour – they have never received a reply.
So, what does he think of the current team under Daniel Farke who are 15th, four points above the relegation zone with seven games to play.
Bielsa, who is under pressure despite guiding Uruguay to the World Cup, said: “I wish that Leeds will be able to stay up because that is where they should be. The club is an institution with resources and footballers good enough to keep them up.”
Bielsa was speaking at The Grove Hotel in Watford where England used to be based ahead of Wembley matches. A Spaniard at the pre-match press conference asked whether English football is all about the long ball.
Yet the former Newell’s Old Boys, Espanyol and Lazio manager said: “English football used to be known for long balls but not anymore. They have the players to build up from the goalkeeper.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
