Leeds United sources speak out on Josuha Guilavogui after controversy v Millwall
Josuha Guilavogui earned a rare start as Leeds United were knocked out of the FA Cup by Millwall on Saturday.
The Frenchman has 15 appearances to his name since joining the Whites on a free transfer in October 2024, though 13 of those have been as a substitute in the Championship.
His only other start this season came in Leeds’ previous FA Cup fixture against League Two side Harrogate Town, with both performances coming under immense scrutiny.
Of course, all of Daniel Farke‘s players were criticised following their exit from the FA Cup at Elland Road on 8 February, being knocked out by two brilliant goals from Femi Azeez.
While the loss was already bad enough, it could have been made a whole lot more difficult if Guilavogui had not escaped a blatant red card for his challenge on Casper de Norre.
Josuha Guilavogui should have been sent off against Millwall
The experienced 34-year-old, undoubtedly, should have been sent off after 38 minutes, but Leeds sources have claimed he is “not that kind of player” despite the reckless challenge [The Athletic].
“They, rightfully, wanted a red card after the veteran’s studs were planted into Casper De Norre’s shin on Saturday,” Beren Cross wrote.
“For weeks, The Athletic has heard accounts from sources at Leeds, who remained anonymous to protect relationships, that suggest Guilavogui is not that kind of player.”
Leeds United will not fret over FA Cup exit
Farke will not have too many worries about Leeds’ exit from the FA Cup unless a knock in confidence begins to affect their performances in the Championship.
Currently atop the Championship table, just two points above Sheffield United and five points above Burnley, the Whites cannot afford to slow down now with promotion on the mind.
Remaining in another competition is just a distraction from the club’s main target this season, so Farke might even be blowing a sigh of relief after being knocked out.
And while Guilavogui has been wrapped up in a controversial moment, his knowledge and experience will be vital to the young squad if they are to win promotion back to the Premier League.