Leeds United’s shortlist of new managers may include Spanish legend Raul, currently plying his trade with Real Madrid Castilla.
Jesse Marsch’s dismissal should come as no shock after a run of just two wins in 17 games in the Premier League, the latest game a 1-0 defeat to newly-promoted Nottingham Forest.
Their task now is to find the right appointment that can get more out of this talented side to arrest a slide down the table towards the bottom three.
A host of names have already been linked with a move to Elland Road this week after Monday’s sacking of Marsch.
Reports from AS claimed that Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul was on the radar of the club, while being swiftly rejected as he aims to continue his fine work with the side where he became a legend as a player.
However, Sky Sports journalist Mark McAdam has added further insight into Leeds’ potential pursuit of Raul this week.
Speaking on air about the Spaniard and Leeds’ admiration of him, he had this to say:
“I’ll bring to you one name that they have been monitoring, like Ange Postecoglou, for some time, and that’s the Real Madrid legend Raul.
“Now, we understand that they spoke to him when they were looking to replace Marcelo Bielsa. He’s someone that they’ve spoken to and have identified as a potential future Leeds manager.
“Of course, he had a fantastic career, six La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues, he’s currently just working with the reserves (Castilla) so he’s getting his coaching experience.
“He’s got vast experience in the game having played at the very highest level as well for Spain and someone that could be on the radar for a number of Premier League sides.”
Who should replace Marsch long-term?
Arne Slot
Andoni Iraola
Marcelo Gallardo
Other?
Raul would be a major risk to take at this stage of the season, knowing it’s either a success or relegation, with no chance to turn things around from here.
We need someone to be able to hit the ground running, and while Raul has been successful with the Castilla side at Real, there are candidates with senior experience under a lot more pressure than him.
This doesn’t mean he couldn’t be a good manager for us, but the jump from Real Madrid’s B-team to tackling a Premier League relegation battle is huge.