Leeds United could make a ‘huge statement’ by bringing in Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim to replace Marcelo Bielsa, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The Lowdown: Bielsa on the brink?
The Whites suffered another defeat last weekend, losing 4-2 to fierce rivals Manchester United, as Bielsa’s struggles continue this season. The Argentine has experienced a campaign to forget so far, with injuries to key players affecting his plans and some of his tactics not working out.
Bielsa’s current Leeds deal expires at the end of the season and there is an increasing feeling that he won’t extend his stay at Elland Road.
Portuguese outlet UOL reported that the Yorkshire club are considering a move for Amorim as Bielsa’s successor, although the 37-year-old’s reported €30m (£25.7m) release clause may present a significant obstacle.
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The Latest: Journalist backs Amorim as Bielsa’s successor
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke claimed that Amorim could be an ideal replacement for Bielsa, should the 66-year-old decide to move on from Leeds in the coming months.
The journalist stated: “If Leeds could manage to persuade him (Amorim) to come to the club to replace Bielsa, if that was the case, I think it’d be a huge statement from the club as well.”
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The Verdict: Exciting option for Leeds
At 37, Amorim is arguably one of Europe’s most exciting coaches, working wonders with Sporting and winning the Primeira Liga title last season, along with getting them into the last 16 of this season’s Champions League.
He has won three Portuguese League Cups in a row, with his first coming with Braga in 2019/20 and the other two with his current club, which further highlights his credentials.
Amorim would represent a fresh, vibrant appointment and his flexible, attacking style of play isn’t dissimilar to Bielsa’s, so it wouldn’t be too much of a change for Leeds’ players if the Sporting boss is appointed as the next man in charge at Elland Road.
In other news, one Leeds player could leave permanently this summer. Find out who it is here.