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da bwin： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
Leeds United assistant coach Diego Flores confirmed following the pre-season defeat against Manchester United on Wednesday that manager Marcelo Bielsa will remain in Australia for the second fixture against the Western Sydney Wanderers on July 20, and in turn that should allay any potential fears over his future.
What’s the word, then?
Well, the Argentine boss was reported to be unhappy at the prospect of going Down Under as part of the club’s preparations for the upcoming Championship season, making his feelings known to club chiefs.
The 63-year-old only decided to name a 16-man squad for mammoth trip to the southern hemisphere, with new signings like Helder Costa and Ben White staying on English ground – as well as Bielsa until the eve of the clash against the Red Devils – to ensure that they are in the best possible shape for the big kick-off next month.
Some Whites supporters on Twitter were certainly concerned about the impact it could have on the South American coach, who has shown his volatility in the past – such as leaving Lazio just two days after being appointed.
Slight relief
There may have been some fears of a strained relationship between Bielsa and the club’s hierarchy had he only spent 36 hours with the likes of Andrea Radrizzani and Angus Kinnear – who are both in Oz – before heading back to the UK and missing part of the tour.
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However, the fact that he is staying and clearly ready to embrace the tour despite his initial concerns is surely a big positive, and should calm the nerves of any supporters who may have been getting worried about him leaving before the 2019/20 season even got underway.
Other supporters on Twitter have suggested that the loss of Kalvin Phillips could also raise doubts over the veteran manager’s future, but the fact that Kinnear said they are actively looking to offer him a new contract to keep him at Elland Road is just another plus point.