Jaidon Anthony reacts to Leeds United player developments
Leeds United midfielder Ilia Gruev tasted disappointment with Bulgaria in the latest international break away from Elland Road.
Gruev featured in both games for Bulgaria in their UEFA Nations League B qualification final against the Republic of Ireland, playing 179 minutes throughout two legs.
The 24-year-old put in a superb shift in both matches, but couldn’t prevent his side from defeat as Bulgaria lost 4-2 on aggregate.
Despite Bulgaria’s exit, Burnley star Jaidon Anthony, who was on loan at Leeds last season, was full of praise for Gruev.
Gruev is a crucial part of the Bulgaria squad
Gruev’s solid performances for club and country have not gone unnoticed, as praise starts to come in, with the Leeds midfielder now an undisputed starter for his national team, earning 19 caps after making his debut in 2022.
The former Werder Bremen man has played a vital role in Leeds United’s push for the Premier League, as Daniel Farke’s side remains in the driver’s seat to secure promotion.
| Opposition | Home/Away |
| Swansea | Home |
| Luton Town | Away |
| Middlesborough | Away |
| Preston North End | Home |
Following Bulgaria’s defeat in the Nations League, keeping them in League C, Gruev posted on Instagram, writing: “Thank you for your support.”
Anthony, who played with Gruev during the 2023-24 campaign at Elland Road, applauded the 24-year-old’s performance and commented: “Busquets.”
Sergio Busquets is undoubtedly the best defensive midfielder of his generation, and to even be compared to the Spaniard is a huge achievement.
Gruev to leave Leeds United?
The midfielder recently spoke about his desire to prove himself in the Premier League. With the Whites pushing for promotion, the Bulgarian could soon get his chance to play in the English top flight and show his skills in the world’s most competitive league.
However, with the promotion race extremely competitive, there is an odd chance that the West Yorkshire club may miss out on promotion altogether. In such an instance, the Bulgaria international might have to take a call on his future and leave Leeds.
At this stage, Farke’s side are poised to get promoted, but they missed out on promotion last season despite dominating for the majority of the campaign.
Suitors could be lining up for the 24-year-old who has been fantastic for the Whites and has performed well in the Bundesliga too.