Tuesday night saw Javi Gracia snub Willy Gnonto once again as Leeds drew with Leicester and if the Whites decide to keep Gracia in the dugout come the end of the season – then we will be waving goodbye to our favourite Italian.
Gracia decided to use Crysencio Summerville ahead of Gnonto when Luis Sinisterra picked up an injury. Brenden Aaronson replaced Rodrigo. With another substitute opportunity available, he ignored Gnonto – and Georgie Rutter.
Instead, he kept the players on the pitch. The midfield looked leggy, Patrick Bamford had a good game but it was overshadowed by his miss and Jack Harrison needed help. Ultimately, using Gnonto might have given us a victory.
That is speculation – and this might be, too. But, if Leeds do stay up and decide to hand the reigns to Gracia on a longer-term basis, then surely, Gnonto will be asking his representatives to find him a new club in the summer.
Gnonto, 19, has now failed to start any of the last five Premier League games. His last start came in the 4-2 win over Wolves and even though he was impressing – he was subbed off on the hour, visibly frustrating the speed machine.
If Leeds keep Gracia then we will be waving goodbye to Gnonto
Injured for Arsenal, returning but unused against Forest – he came on as a sub against Palace, Liverpool and Fulham but is yet to start. On Tuesday, not even used. Gnonto has plenty of interest in his services ahead of the summer.
Jermaine Beckford underlined how “bizarre” the situation was to leave Gnonto on the bench – by saying on BT Sport that he simply “does not know” why Gracia overlooked him. A player he said works hard, and can be “naughty”.
Gazzetta Dello Sport state that Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City want Gnonto. A report from 90Min says five clubs from Serie A are keen. Gnonto will have the pick of most of Europe should he leave Elland Road in the window.
Of course, Gnonto will go if Leeds are relegated – it harms his Italy chances. But if Leeds do stay up, then they will have a decision to make. Keeping Gracia will surely convince Gnonto that he needs to go – Gracia doesn’t fancy him.
