Leeds under Bielsa were disappointing in February as his side conceded 20 league goals and 60 in total this season so far.
There has been so much praise for Marcelo Bielsa by many coaches and the press (particularly the British press). The Argentine coach is hyped as one of the most tactically sound coaches on the dugouts. However, the results prove somewhat otherwise.
Some of his counterparts also view him as the best coach, including Pep Guardiola and Mauricio Pochettino. Bielsa has always stuck to his style - unyielding, uncompromising and is loved by many. Guardiola claims that the love he enjoys from many is more than any title. In a world governed by commerce and trophies, it is utter bunkum to use the people’s love as a barometer to measure the level of success.
Clear example is ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The Norwegian enjoyed the love of a considerable section of the United fans but was an utter failure in delivering on the right metrics - titles. Ole is known for his infamous quote that titles are for egos.
Well, for Bielsa, he has worked into a cul de sac. The Leeds management was through with the sentimental and emotional drivel pushed in many quarters. Bielsa was shown the door after a dismal month of football.
Leeds fire Bielsa, Marsch takes over
Following the 4-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, the management of Leeds United felt it was time to pull the plug on the Bielsa project. The club confirmed the firing of Marcelo Bielsa and the appointment of new head coach Jesse Marsch. The ex-Leipzig boss has an arduous task on his hands as he has to win over the fans who were thoroughly in love with Bielsa.
Marsch lasted only 21 games in his last job at RB Leipzig this season. He parted ways with Leipzig on mutual consent. Marsch will be in the dugout for his first Leeds assignment when they take on Leicester City on Saturday.
Leedsctor of football Victor Orta claims that Jesse is someone the clubntified several years ago when he was at Red Bull Salzburg. Orta says they believe in his philosophy, and his style of play aligns with the ethos of the club.
Orta concluded that Leeds have a long term plan and believe Marsch can take the team to the next level.
Marsch has a tough job on his hands
Leeds are hovering over the relegation zone, and Marsch has the job of guiding them to safety. As per bookmakers, they still have a chance of escaping the drop. The 48-year-old American led Red Bull Salzburg to back-to-back Austrian league titles but did not last long at Leipzig. The American lost nine games in 21 at Salzburg before he and the club mutually agreed to part ways in December.
Marsch was out of work for two months, and that is why Leeds signed him, as they didn’t have to pay any compensation to secure his services.
Leeds have a run of games that sees them play Leicester, Aston Villa and Norwich City. Marsch will hope to pick up the points needed to survive in these games. The American has the cloud of a dismal February to dispel. The club conceded 20 goals in February.