Leeds United made ‘tentative’ steps to bring Marcelo Bielsa back to the club at the end of the season prior to his appointment at Uruguay.
That is according to the Athletic, who claim Bielsa was made aware his name was brought up in talks by the club’s board for a return to Elland Road before his arrival at La Celeste was officially finalised.
The 67-year-old had been out of work for 15 months following his dismissal from Leeds in February last year, with his three-and-a-half-years at Elland Road the longest he has spent at any club side.
As such, Bielsa took some time away from the game to learn and adapt his style ahead of taking a new job, which came earlier this week in the form of Uruguay.
Uruguay will be the third international side Bielsa has taken charge of throughout his long career, following on from spells at Argentina and Chile.
Bielsa made aware of Leeds talks before Uruguay job
Bielsa is still very much revered in these parts and on countless occasions the board have been made aware by supporters of their feelings towards the Argentine.
Both home and away, Leeds fans have continued to sign his name since his departure, which has seemingly planted a seed in the head of Andrea Radrizzani.
Leeds are set to be in the market for a new manager this summer, regardless of whether Sam Allardyce is able to guide them to Premier League survival.
Supporter discontent is the highest it’s been for a long time at Elland Road and there would’ve been no better way to get them back onside than brining Bielsa back.
However, despite the fact he was aware his name had been mentioned ‘tentatively’ by the club, Bielsa has opted to turn a new chapter in his management career with a return to international football.