Marcelo Bielsa has been sacked by Leeds United in the wake Saturday’s 4-0 defeat to Tottenham.
A run of five defeats in six matches has left the club in 16th place in the Premier League, just two points above the relegation zone.
Bielsa has now been dismissed after more than three-and-a-half years in charge of the club.
Leeds plan to announce his successor on Monday, with former RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg boss Jesse Marsch the favourite to replace him at Elland Road.
Bielsa first took charge of Leeds in 2018 and guided the club to promotion to the Premier League in the 2019-20 season, ending the club’s 16-year wait for top-flight football.
His side finished ninth in their first season back in the Premier League, impressing many with their high octane style of play.
However, they have struggled to replicate that form this season and have picked up just five wins over the course of the campaign.
— Leeds United (@LUFC) February 27, 2022
Leeds have now parted ways with the Argentine but have plans in place for a ‘permanent tribute’ to him at Elland Road.
“This has been the toughest decision I have had to make during my tenure at Leeds United, taking into account all the success Marcelo has had at the club,” said Leeds United chairman Andrea Radrizzani.
“With Marcelo as our head coach, we had three incredible campaigns and the good times returned to Elland Road. He changed the culture of the club and brought a winning mentality to us all. The moments created, particularly in the 2019/20 season and winning promotion to the Premier League, will of course live long in all our memories, myself and the fans included.
Jesse Marsch’s set to be appointed as new Leeds United manager. Full agreement reached on verbal basis – final details to be sorted out in the coming hours. 🚨🇺🇸 #LUFC
Work permit among last issues to be resolved then Marsch will be announced as new Leeds head coach. #Leeds pic.twitter.com/qD9pAoiegy
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 27, 2022
“However, I have to act in the best interest of the club and I believe a change is required now in order to secure our Premier League status. Recent results and performances have not met our expectations.
“We find ourselves in a precarious league position and I feel now is the right time to bring in a new head coach, in order to have an impact in the decisive stage of the season.
“Naturally, myself, along with everyone else at the club would like to thank Marcelo for his efforts and achievements and we wish him the very best for the future.”
Featured Image Credit: PA Images
