Marcelo Bielsa is still managing on the biggest stage of all and went head-to-head with Lionel Messi’s Argentine side.
The Leeds United hero is almost two years into his Uruguay tenure which is still a long way from matching his time at Elland Road.
Even away from the Whites though, the Argentine coach still seemingly advises his former players, as Bielsa changed Kalvin Phillips’ career away from Leeds.
With Bielsa now in his post with Uruguay, a tough test against Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina awaited him.
Luckily for Bielsa, Messi wasn’t available through injury, but whether that had any impact on the result is another question.
How Leeds United legend Marcelo Bielsa fared against Argentina
As mentioned it was never going to be an easy test for the former Leeds boss, as Argentina are arguably the greatest footballing country in the world at the moment.
Despite their stature in the game, players like Messi still show respect to their opposition, especially Bielsa.
Messi praised Bielsa for Uruguay’s style and as much as the former Whites manager would’ve appreciated the comment, he would’ve been seething after Friday night’s result.
Uruguay lost 1-0 to Argentina with Thiago Almada grabbing the only goal in a game that was never going to be dull as Nicolas Gonzalez got sent off.
The defeat leaves Bielsa’s side fourth in the World Cup qualifier standings, but pressure might be beginning to mount on the former Leeds boss.
READ MORE: Italy release statement on Leeds United star Wilfried Gnonto’s injury
Former Leeds boss Bielsa could be under pressure with Uruguay
Of course, Leeds fans know of Bielsa’s sacking, and whether fans agreed with it or not it seemed like the right time for the club and manager to part.
Well now Bielsa could certainly have pressure mounted on him after Friday night’s result.
Uruguay have now only won one game in their last eight fixtures in all competitions as eyebrows might be raised at Bielsa’s future.
Bielsa’s side meet Bolivia on Tuesday night as Leeds fans will be hoping their former manager keeps his post after so long, especially as they know his work at the club saw Bielsa galvanise Leeds.
And let’s make it clear, If anyone can turn Uruguay’s dismal spell around, it’s Bielsa.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
