Leeds talent vows to make life ‘as difficult as possible’ for Marcelo Bielsa this summer
Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has vowed to make life “as difficult as possible” for Marcelo Bielsa this summer by proving that he is worthy of a first team spot in the Premier League next season.
The French starlet joined the Whites on a permanent basis earlier this week after establishing himself as Bielsa’s go-to option between the sticks during Kiko Casilla’s absence following his ban for racially abusing Jonathan Leko.
And Meslier has made it clear that he plans to hold on to that jersey next term too.
Speaking to the print edition of L’Equipe, he said: “From the very beginning, I felt really good in the club and the town.
“I didn’t have to think much, I’m going to discover the Premier League!
“Now, I’ll need to have a good preseason so that I can give myself all the means to make the choice of the future starter as difficult as possible for the manager”.
We would argue that Meslier having a good preseason wouldn’t make Bielsa’s decision more difficult, but actually a lot more simple.
After a stellar period at the end of this season, that number one spot is surely Meslier’s to lose now.
The youngster has barely put a foot wrong, and has conceded 0.46 fewer goals per 90 minutes than Casilla this season, as per Wyscout, as well as making 16.2% more saves with reflexes.
He may only be 20, but he has conducted himself like a player who is vastly more experienced, and his obvious love for the club is already clear to see.
He deserves his shot in the top flight, and these comments only serve to reinforce that fact.
In other Leeds United news, ‘Alarm bells ringing at Elland Road’ after major news reported about Bielsa