Ray Parlour has delivered a five-word verdict on Marcelo Bielsa possibly leaving Leeds – “I’d be amazed by that” – after the disappointment of their play-off semi-final against Derby.
Talking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast Show (talkSPORT, Friday, 6.25am), Parlour also said that Leeds would be “absolutely gutted” they’re not in the Premier League.
“I thought Leeds would definitely go through,” Parlour said.
Brazil then said he’d heard that Marcelo Bielsa was ready to walk away from the club.
“I’d be amazed by that,” said Parlour, “he’s done a great job.
“They’ll be kicking themselves as they were in the top-two for most of the season. I think Bielsa has done a great job and they’ll be absolutely gutted they’re not in the Premier League next season.
“They need to take stock now, have a good pre-season and have another go next season.”
OPINION
We’d be surprised if Bielsa leaves but not ‘amazed’ like Parlour. The problem is two-fold. Firstly, Bielsa will want assurances over transfers and there won’t be a lot of money to spend at Elland Road this summer. Also, there’s the question of his wages. He’s reportedly on as much as £6m-a-year and any future deal might have to be on reduced terms in the Championship. He’s made some overtures towards staying, talking about improvements at Thorp Arch, but he was far from committing himself after the play-off semis, saying he would consider any proposal put to him. That proves it’s not going to be as simple as Leeds triggering the one-year extension they have on his services. We really hope he stays and we’re sure that every single Leeds fan will be wanting him to put pen to paper again too. That would give them a big boost after the highs and ultimate low of the 18/19 season. We think they’d have a good shot at automatic promotion if he stays. If he goes? It could be trouble.