Leeds United‘s majority owner Andrea Radrizzani outlined his ambition last night for “white smoke” by midday today as he looks to appoint a successor to Jesse Marsch.
He took to Twitter to interact with Leeds supporters, and teased fans that a breakthrough was imminent: “We are on it… hopefully white smoke by tonight or tmw (tomorrow) morning.”
That hasn’t materialised yet, despite multiple reports linking Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola to the club as the most likely to take over at Elland Road. Reports from both Phil Hay of The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano have confirmed the Spaniard is the front runner.
Radrizzani has since moved quickly to temper expectations in the club’s search for a manager, he answered fans via Twitter once more and said: “Not yet ..need more time.”
He implied that fans should get behind the team for now, with a game against bitter rivals Manchester United looming, he added: “Let’s support the lads now. Keep you posted.”
This information aligns with that of Adam Pope of the BBC, who claims it is more likely that negotiations for a new head coach will be concluded by Sunday’s game instead. Pope said: “Leeds United have started the interview process for a new head coach. There is an initial short list from those already in work before delving into a wider pool of candidates.
“The hope is to have an appointment before Sunday but negotiations could make that unrealistic.”
Quiz: Can you remember Leeds United’s last 15 results v Man United ahead of midweek clash?
The Whites need to get this right, but there are also key games looming, so time is of the essence.
Whoever it may be, Leeds need direction with their new appointment. Marsch’s race was run but Leeds need more clarity in terms of philosophy and playing style.
The next manager also needs time to input their ideas. They need to hit the ground running as quickly as possible but a new style of football may also be difficult to transition to. Hopefully before Sunday something is resolved for Radrizzani and co.
Who should replace Marsch long-term?
Arne Slot
Andoni Iraola
Marcelo Gallardo
Other?
