Marcelo Bielsa was a man of many talents, and his brilliant persuasion brought many star players to Leeds United.
Bielsa was seen as a saint in the eyes of Leeds fans.
The Argentine certainly had a way with words to convince high-valued players to Elland Road.
Not only was he excellent at transfers, but the former Leeds boss brought the best out of many players, as Stuart Dallas was ‘invincible’ under Bielsa at Leeds.
One major star who had a successful stint at Elland Road had serious interest, but Bielsa worked his magic once again.
How a Marcelo Bielsa phone call persuaded Rodrigo to join Leeds
Rodrigo had a solid time at Leeds, as the Spaniard racked up 26 goals in his three Premier League seasons.
He was a man for the big moments at times, as Rodrigo sent a heartfelt message to Leeds fans when he left for Qatar in 2023.
Rodrigo was linked with Real Madrid when at Leeds, just to emphasize how good he was in Yorkshire in is final season, but Bielsa already had his work cut out for him having to battle with two other Spanish giants in the first place.
According to a report from Marca, Rodrigo almost joined Atletico Madrid for a whopping £50m in 2019, whilst Barcelona also considered paying the large fee for the attacker in January 2020.
This turned out to be a fee double what Leeds paid seven months later, as Rodrigo’s value dropped by almost 50%, and Leeds ended up signing him for £27m in August 2020.
As per The Athletic – Bielsa made contact with Rodrigo personally, talking to him about where he would fit in at Elland Road.
The Leeds coach was the factor and a source close to the outlet said, “It was Bielsa who convinced him,”
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Former Leeds boss Jesse Marsch said Rodrigo could’ve become the world’s best
Bielsa did an excellent job in securing the Spanish international, who no doubt had more lucrative deals away from Leeds.
But it’s safe to say he made the right choice, having a strong career with the Whites, and he still has a connection with the Leeds fans which is always good.
At one point the deal looked like a complete bargain, as former Leeds manager Jesse Marsch claimed Rodrigo could’ve become a world-beater.
Although his first two seasons didn’t emulate his brilliance in the final season, Marsch suggested if Rodrigo signed at 18, he would’ve made him one of the best players in the world.
Of course, he signed at the latter stage of his career but Leeds still squeezed out a fantastic final season from the Spaniard, who will forever be remembered for his efforts in the Premier League.
But it’s all thanks to Bielsa.
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