Leeds Live’s Beren Cross has been analysing Marcelo Bielsa’s squad and trying to determine who has a short, medium or long-term future with the club.
One of those deemed to have a short-term future with the Whites is Spanish goalkeeper Kiko Casilla. The 33-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in January 2019 from La Liga giants Real Madrid. Having also previously represented Espanyol, Casilla to date has made 56 appearances for the Yorkshire-based club (via Transfermarkt.co.uk).
Despite his age, his contract at Elland Road is not due to expire until June 2023 and, as per Leeds Live, he was expected to be the undisputed number-one goalkeeper under Bielsa for the foreseeable future.
Here’s exactly what Beren Cross had to say, delivering a short-term verdict for the Spaniard:
“Already 33 and still another three years to run on his deal, Casilla was supposed to be the undisputed number one in these parts for the early Premier League years. However, events did not unfold the way anyone wanted them to in 2019/20. First, the string of errors and then the belated racism ban. Few would be surprised if he wanted to end his career in Spain.”
TIF Tactics – Casilla’s Leeds stay could be cut short
After a string of errors this season and the eight-match ban he received for racism – the situation may have changed. Casilla was found guilty of racially abusing Jonathan Leko during the fixture between Leeds and Charlton Athletic on 28th September last year.
Does Kiko Casilla have a future at Leeds United?
Yes
No
The experienced stopper denies the allegation and said: “I do not feel at all that the guilty verdict is a clear reflection of the incident.” That incident, coupled with the fact the goalkeeper has failed to live up to the standards expected by Bielsa and the Leeds United faithful, could mean a return to Spain earlier than planned – hence Beren Cross’ indication of his belief that Casilla’s days at Elland Road are numbered.
His average performance rating in the Championship this season currently stands at 6.66/10 according to WhoScored.com, which in our view, raises questions around whether or not he is good enough to keep goal for the Whites in the Premier League should they secure promotion this season.