Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has claimed Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa would be “absolutely perfect” for a relegation-threatened Premier League side.
The former Leeds midfielder insisted he hopes the Argentine will not be prised away from Elland Road but has been blown away by the impact he’s made this season.
Prutton explained how Bielsa would be ideal for another of his former clubs Southampton and expects sides in the relegation race will be mentioning his name loudly around Christmas time.
“I think if you are struggling a Premier League side that wants four to five months of head down and over the line to maintain your Premier League status then what they’ve seen from Bielsa would make him a cracking shout,” Prutton told the Express. “What you’ve got with Bielsa – and the reason Leeds fans got so excited about him – is he’s such a big name.
“Southampton are a team that’s not just treading water but are dipping below the surface.
“I think because of the short term impact of what Bielsa has been known for in his recent posts, he’s absolutely perfect for a Premier League side that needs to get safe.
“For Leeds fans – and Sky’s Championship coverage – I sincerely hope it won’t happen because what I’ve seen him do and what he’s brought to the league is superb.
“But I think if you are one of those Premier League sides who aren’t too sure about your manager, then you start mentioning Bielsa’s name extremely loudly come Christmas.”
OPINION
The entire Leeds fanbase would be in uproar if there was any possibility Bielsa could leave their club, not only before the season is out but also before his two-year contract expires. Certainly, Premier League clubs should be looking closely at the Argentine, who has transformed United since he took over a mid-table side and steered them to the top of the Championship. His knowledge of the game and understanding of how to build a team and develop a playing style has stood out despite having resources that pale in comparison with many second-tier clubs. Plenty of visiting managers have come away from playing Leeds this season and be in awe at their intensity and quality. Could Bielsa be prised away? It appears unlikely. The Argentine does not follow orthodox career paths and is at an age where he neither needs the money or the status that comes with a top-tier outfit. He appears fully committed to pushing Leeds towards their Premier League holy grail.