Danny Murphy has told TalkSPORT that the more he thinks about it, he thinks Rafa Benitez is just what Leeds United need in the dugout – amid reports that Leeds are eyeing a move for either Bielsa, or another Spaniard in Javi Gracia.
Following Saturday’s woeful 1-0 loss to Everton at Goodison Park, Leeds are really up against it. We have slipped to 19th place in the Premier League, Leeds remain without a win since November 5, in the top tier of English football.
Michael Skubala was expected to take charge of the ‘upcoming fixtures’. The belief being that Leeds were buying themselves time, after a series of rejections from the likes of Arne Slot, Carlos Corberan, Andoni Iraola and others.
90Min claim Gracia and Benitez are the two names now being considered. The loss against Everton has seemingly convinced the Leeds board to move. Gracia looks more likely – but, Murphy thinks Benitez is just what Leeds need.
“It’s a difficult one because they’re so used to playing on the front foot, it would be a complete contrast. Complete change, although it’s not going particularly well the way they’re going,” Murphy told TalkSPORT, on their Twitter.
“On a short-term contract, it could be worth the risk. He’s very good at getting a team organised and making you hard to beat. My gut feeling is that the way they’re playing, the results they’re getting, that’s what they need.”
Danny Murphy says Rafa Benitez is just what Leeds need in the dugout
Benitez is obviously a huge name and his arrival would cause some reaction. But the issue in bringing Benitez in, as Murphy says, is that Leeds are moulded around an attacking style. A team that has got used to playing with freedom.
Years under Marcelo Bielsa, and then Jesse Marsch, has given emphasis to the attack. Benitez would not only revert to a defensive mindset, but is a polar opposite. Surely, that is too much of a change without a pre-season. Gracia is ideal.
