Javi Gracia recounts ‘unforgettable’ ill-fated three-month spell with Leeds United
Former Leeds United manager Javi Gracia says he looks back on his time at Elland Road with fondness.
After the sacking of Jesse Marsch in February 2023, the 53-year-old Spaniard was hired to steady the Whites’ ship in search of Premier League safety.
However, that didn’t work out as he was axed less than three months into the job. Sam Allardyce then took over but couldn’t keep Leeds up.
Speaking to AS on 17 April, as translated by Sports Witness, it is clear Gracia isn’t bitter about that situation.
He said: “I have had the privilege of being able to enjoy the experience of training there in two teams and the memory is unforgettable. It was a wonderful time for me and my family, including my three children. Everything there is fantastic.”
How home form has helped Leeds United
As the ex-manager said, Elland Road is a fantastic place and this season has seen Daniel Farke’s side lose just one match at home. This came last time out against Blackburn Rovers (13 April) in a 1-0 defeat.
There have been some superb wins that are going to be very memorable for years to come. The late 3-1 Leicester City victory saw some amazing scenes in the stands.
Connor Roberts scored the equaliser before Archie Gray grabbed the eventual winner just three minutes later. Patrick Bamford added a third and from there it looked as if Leeds were destined for promotion from the Championship.
There are three games remaining in the season for Farke’s side. Two of those are away with trips to QPR and Middlesbrough which could already see the promotion race over.
If this is not the case, a fateful visit of Southampton to Elland Road could prove to be the most important game of the season.
There is no doubt that their home form has been the basis for Leeds’ push towards the Premier League. They just need to maintain it for the remaining weeks.
In other Leeds United news, David Prutton made a wish over the Whites and Southampton live on air.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.