The Guardian claims Leeds United have added Bodo/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen to their managerial shortlist as the club continue to work to bring in a replacement for Jesse Marsch. Knutsen is currently starring in Norwegian football.
So far, Leeds’ search for a manager has seen Carlos Corberan sign a new deal at West Brom. Rayo Vallecano’s Andoni Iraola looks the most-likely option as things stand, while Feyenoord’s Arne Slot is likely to stay at the Eredivisie leaders.
Ange Postecoglou, Ralph Hasenhuttl, Marcelo Gallardo and plenty of other names have been touted. But the latest name to be added to the list is that of 54-year-old Knudsen. It comes after five brilliant years as Bodo/Glimt manager.
He has taken a small Norwegian side to the League title in 2020, and 2021. His side are regular participants in the Europa Conference League too, beating Jose Mourinho’s Roma 6-1 – the first time Mourinho has conceded six goals.
The Guardian report that Iraola remains the front runner. But that he could cost a fair amount in compensation and that may tempt Leeds to look elsewhere – with Celtic’s Ange Postecoglou and Knutsen as other options for Leeds.
Leeds add Bodo/Glimt manager Knutsen to shortlist, Iraola still on pole
Knutsen has really impressed in Norwegian football. Clocking up 202 games in charge at Bodo/Glimt, he has won an enormous 113 matches in charge – losing only 41 times. A fifth. But of course, Norwegian football is a big step below.
Does he have the necessary tools to make the step from Bodo/Glimt, to Leeds? Well he clearly has the tactical nous, playing with a refreshing attacking approach and using the counter in Europe – while stifling opponents domestically.
What could be the kicker for Leeds is that Knutsen will see his contract expire in 2024, reducing the amount of cash that would need to be paid to Bodo/Glimt. But Iraola remains the front runner with Leeds sending officials to Madrid.
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