Feyenoord legend Mario Been has been quoted by Dutch outlet Voetbal Primeur as saying that Arne Slot should be aiming higher than Leeds United as his next club – amid reports that he was targeted to replace Jesse Marsch as boss.
Slot, 44, was one of a number of managers considered by Leeds. De Telegraaf reporter Valentijn Driessen said Leeds made a move for Slot last month largely due to the form of Erik ten Hag as Manchester United boss, after leaving Ajax.
Feyenoord gaffer Slot is excelling in his role. After taking Feyenoord to the Europe Conference League final last season, he is now guiding his side to the Eredivisie title ahead of Ajax this season. He has never won the Dutch League title.
As a player, or a manager – despite spending his entire footballing career in his home country. But, he was linked with Leeds in February. Feyenoord icon Been, though, feels Slot has already surpassed Leeds and should be aiming higher.
“I think he can take it a step further. He can be a little more picky. I attribute him the same level as Erik ten Hag,” Been said this week, as quoted by Dutch outlet Voetbal Primeur. “So I think he should have a higher reach than Leeds.”
Feyenoord boss Slot should be aiming higher than Leeds as his next club
As things stand, Slot is one of the most in-form managers outside Europe’s top-five leagues. The clamour for the Dutch boss, when the summer arrives, will be large. Clearly, he is tempted by a move to the Premier League, even with Leeds.
But, Leeds were never going to be able to attract a manager when sitting in a relegation zone. Eventually, Javi Gracia came in. If Leeds can survive this season, then there is every chance that Slot could be targeted. But he is a top gaffer.
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