Odds slashed: Marcelo Bielsa now big favourite to make Premier League return
Marcelo Bielsa could be set to return to the Premier League in the coming months, four years after he left Leeds United.
The 70-year-old had been linked with a return to Elland Road when Daniel Farke was under huge pressure at Leeds in November.
The German turned it round with a string of strong results, although his side’s 4-0 loss to Arsenal on Saturday has brought the threat of relegation back on slightly.
Bielsa is currently managing the Uruguay international team, and is expected to lead them at the World Cup this summer.
Several Premier League managers could be sacked in the coming months, with plenty of potential opportunities for Bielsa to return after the tournament.
Marcelo Bielsa tipped for Leeds United return
Bielsa’s time at Elland Road was defining for Leeds, and, in many ways, saw them shock the Premier League.
The Argentine’s squad won the Championship in 2020, and came within three points of qualifying for European competition in their first season in the top flight.
Bielsa’s brand, often dubbed ‘murderball’, involved an incredibly intense press and stunningly quick and fluid football.
| Marcelo Bielsa | Leeds United |
| Wins | 81 |
| Draws | 30 |
| Losses | 59 |
| Scored | 274 |
| Conceded | 238 |
The speed at which Leeds moved the ball shocked the league, with the new boys beating the likes of Tottenham and Man City.
Unfortunately, it was not sustainable. The Premier League caught on, and the likes of Patrick Bamford, who had been integral to the system, struggled with injuries and form in the 2021/22 season.
In February 2022, Bielsa and Leeds parted ways as the threat of relegation loomed large at Elland Road.
But the 70-year-old has now been named as the shock favourite to replace Farke in the dugout, should he depart in the coming months.
One major bookmaker has tipped Bielsa at 3/1 for the job, while Bo Svensson (5/1) and Marco Silva (8/1) make up the other main contenders.
Daniel Farke could be dragged into trouble
Farke must feel deflated after Saturday’s results. Leeds have lost just two of their last 11 Premier League games, but remain just six points outside of the relegation zone.
And with West Ham and Nottingham Forest seemingly getting stronger by the week, trouble could be on the way for the German.
Friday will see Elland Road host a massive game in the race for safety. Leeds will face Nottingham Forest, in a game that could see them pulled towards West Ham if they lose.
On Saturday, the Hammers will travel to Burnley, with a big chance to close the gap on one or both of the two teams playing the night before.