Josuha Guilavogui has revealed how he consulted Leeds United icon Max Gradel just before his move to Elland Road back in October.
Guilavogui has now been at Leeds for over a month and has been quick to make a good impression on both supporters and his teammates.
Prior to Leeds’ 4-3 win over Swansea City in November, Daniel Farke shared how Guilavogui delivered a speech to the dressing room about the importance of winning away from home.
Clearly that had the desired effect as Leeds went onto seal three points in the 91st minute, though unfortunately they could not make it back-to-back wins on the road at Blackburn Rovers.
However, considering all of his appearances so far have been brief cameos late in matches, the fact he feels confident enough to take on the responsibility of the pre-match team talk shows the sort of character he is.
Guilavogui on Gradel talks before Leeds switch
During Guilavogui’s first interview after signing he cited Leeds legend Olivier Dacourt as someone he would speak to about the club.
Now in an interview with Leeds Live, Guilavogui has shared how he also spoke to Gradel before his move, having played together at St Etienne.
St Etienne was actually the club Gradel left Leeds to join in 2011 and although he didn’t spend that long in West Yorkshire, he is someone the fans remember fondly.
And clearly the feeling is mutual from Gradel’s side too, with Guilavogui revealed he had nothing but positive things to say about Leeds during their conversation.
He said: “With Max Gradel, he’s like a big brother for me. I remember, we played two or three years together and you know you have some people, not only in football, but they are shining?
“Max Gradel is one of the guys, when he’s coming in the locker room, he’s always smiling, always have a good mood. I really like him and we spoke when I signed for Leeds.
“We spoke a little bit and he said ‘Yeah, bro, you have to enjoy it, this is a wonderful team and the club is big and I’m so happy for you.’ He’s still playing in Turkey. I’m always texting with him. We have really good memories together.”
Guilavogui looking to copy Gradel
Farke carved out Guilavogui’s role at Leeds pretty clearly upon his arrival, specifically suggesting his off-field help for the young players would be key.
Guilavogui believes that is something he is thriving upon, having had Gradel do the same to him earlier on his career.
He said: “Now with the social media, of course, we have to be very careful because, on social media, you have also the bad side, but how many kids dream about football? If I can let them come in and give my emotion and I can share with them, this will be the most precious thing.
“I had big brothers, like Max Gradel, like Bafetimbi Gomis, Dante, the ones who take me on their shoulders and said ‘Jos, I will show you everything.’ Now, I am in the step of my career where I have to give it back and, yes, I’m a happy man.
“What was the probability after being injured in the last season, for two times at eight weeks, not playing, staying home for six months and playing for Leeds? I have to be blessed, so let me share it with you guys.”
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