Feyenoord manager Arne Slot has been speaking to ESPN about the offer he received from Leeds United back in February, and the in-demand Dutch gaffer gave his verdict on the Yorkshire side – describing us as a “nice club”.
Slot, 44, is quickly becoming one of the most-touted managers in European football as he continues to catch the eye in the dugout at Feyenoord. His side sit eight points clear at the top of the Eredivisie with five league games left.
An incredible achievement, after guiding his side to the Conference Final last season – losing 1-0 to Roma. This season, they have got to the Europa League quarter-finals, 1-0 up after the first leg against Jose Mourinho’s men.
Of course, it is now well-known that Slot rejected Leeds after the sacking of Jesse Marsch. Understandable, given he has spent his entire career – as a player, and manager – in the Eredivisie, but never actually won the League title.
This is the closest he is going to come to doing so. He had to stay, and the Europa League could bring success, too. Asked about the interest and offer from Leeds in February after Marsch’s exit, Slot gave his verdict on the Whites.
“Leeds is a very nice club,” Slot said. “In the middle of the season, with still so much to play for here, I didn’t think that was a good time to leave for England. It was also better from a family point of view to stay here for a while.
“The Premier League is the number one competition in Europe. I also think it is very valuable to leave somewhere in a positive way. Giovanni van Bronckhorst became a champion here, but a year later his life no longer looked so nice.”
Feyenoord manager Slot speaks about Leeds offer back in February
So, Slot has got his wish. He chose to stay, and now looks set to end the season with a League title – and the potential to go far in the Europa League. Then, in the summer, a move to the Premier League looks very likely.
The Times recently said West Ham, Palace, Tottenham and Leeds are all showing interest. If Javi Gracia keeps Leeds in the Premier League, it will be interesting to see what direction the Leeds board take on the Spaniard.
