‘He’d be sensational’ – Leeds legend Johnny Giles makes big claim about Bielsa
Leeds United legend Johnny Giles has been bigging up Marcelo Bielsa, suggesting he would be able to turn Manchester United into title winners.
The Irishman knows a thing or two about top-class managers having worked under Don Revie, and he likes the Argentine a lot.
In an appearance on The Football Show on Thursday’s Off the Ball, Giles was asked if Man United would be title contenders with Bielsa at the helm.
“Yes, of course they would,” Giles said. “If he [Bielsa] had Man United’s players he’d be sensational.
“Even against Spurs, they were well beaten in the end, but they had some terrific moves and they don’t have the goal scorers that you need to finish off when you have a good move.
“They are always going to be a bit flaky with the players they have and his philosophy, but they will never be boring.
“They were a mediocre second division team, he hasn’t spent a lot of money and he’s done a terrific job.
“Leeds with the players that they have and the money that they spent in relation to Liverpool or Manchester United or Manchester City shouldn’t be there at all. But they are there and they are capable of beating teams on their day.”
Could Bielsa be lured away?
There is no doubt that Bielsa has forged an envious reputation in England due to his work over the last few seasons.
Leeds have played entertaining football throughout his tenure and it is finally gaining the applaud it deserves.
Giles is undoubtedly a fan of Bielsa’s style but he also raises an interesting point about the 65-year-old’s ability.
However, Bielsa has fallen in love with Leeds – the club and the city, and he’s not a manager who is going to be lured by money and managing big-name stars. It’s just not Bielsa’s way.
Some pundits have voiced concern about Leeds’ openness, and the vulnerabilities it exposes, but Giles is accurate in suggesting it breeds trust.
Each player knows his task and is able to fulfil it, and if Bielsa can continue adding quality to the squad they will have a chance of competing with the elite.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay has rubbished a claim made by a TalkSPORT pundit.