Leeds United secured their place in the Premier League last week and Marcelo Bielsa will be looking to make his mark in England’s top flight with the Whites next year.
Leeds came agonizingly close to securing promoted last year but they did not let their heads drop after missing out. The Whites fought back this year and they are now on the verge of winning the Championship as well.
Here at Anytime Football, we look at three reasons why Marcelo Bielsa succeeded in winning promotion with the Whites this season.
Clear Identity and Vision
When Marcelo Bielsa arrived, Leeds were lacking in identity and their football lacked conviction. The Argentine did not set up for instant results. Instead, he built a project with identity and long-term vision.
Bielsa added style and conviction to Leeds’ football. Initially, his pressing system was hard for the players to adapt to. But Leeds are a joy to watch in full flow now.
Mentality
Leeds United capitulating when it matters most was a regular occurrence prior to Bielsa’s arrival. However, their comeback this year after last season’s setback shows that Leeds have evolved mentally.
They are a more confident unit who have bounced back immediately after setbacks this season.
Transfers
It is often impossible to rebuild a struggling team without transfers. Bielsa needed help in the market and Leeds did their deals diligently.
Loan deals for Nketiah, Harrison, Costa, Ben White and Meslier proved vital for them. Despite not having to spend a lot of money, they made sure that the squad was freshened up and ready to compete at a higher level.
Leeds have reaped the rewards of proper planning and execution over the past couple of seasons and it will be interesting to see how they prepare for their grand return to top flight football this summer.