Leeds United have agreed terms with Marcelo Bielsa over a new contract with the White boss, set to sign before the start of the Premier League season.
El Loco masterminded the club’s long-awaited return to the top flight last campaign, earning the heartfelt devotion of Leeds supporters in the process. Bielsa’s side led the Championship for much of the 2019/2020 season, eventually finishing 10 points clear of second-placed West Brom to win the title.
Bielsa enjoys immense devotion among the Leeds faithful / OLI SCARFF/Getty Images
The former Argentina manager will be rewarded with a new contract for this achievement. Bielsa’s short-term deal expired in the summer but he has been involved in pre-season training and has had input into ongoing infrastructure changes at Elland Road.
Leeds chief executive Angus Kinnear told Sky Sports (via The Telegraph) that there was a question of when the 65-year-old would pen new terms with the club.
“I just need to find a suitable window to get the paper in front of him and he can sign it,” Kinnear said. “We don’t anticipate any challenges.”
“We feel confident. Marcelo is fully focused on training and preparations for the season,” he added.
A graffiti mural of Marcelo Bielsa as Christ the Redeemer in Leeds? pic.twitter.com/mA3DLArwMF
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 16, 2020
“It’s a bit like last season when everyone was nervous about the contract and it’s really getting time for him to focus on signing him when all he wants to talk about is Changes at Thorpe Arch, changes at Elland Road, strengthening the team and strengthening our backroom staff.
“We talk every day and it’s about the preparations for the season rather than his contract. I know the fans feel nervous, it makes me a little bit nervous but I don’t think he is. There’s a reason. Be.”
Leeds’ long wait for Premier League action will come to an end on September 12 when they face Liverpool on the opening day.