Joe Roberts

Fri 13 October 2023 12:40, UK

Leeds United have completed the official documentation to confirm Rudolph Cline-Thomas as a director of the club.

In a file sent to Companies House, Cline-Thomas was finally confirmed as Leeds’ director after 49ers Enterprises’ full takeover of the club from Andrea Radrizzani in July with files submitted on Thursday (12 October).

Radrizzani’s involvement as director of the club has terminated, with the 49ers buying his remaining 56 per cent share in the club following Leeds’ relegation.

Official

While the 49er’s full ownership of Leeds United has been complete for a while, the official documentation will be good news to fans.

The Radrizzani era at Elland Road is officially over, and the new ownership group have done very well to steady the ship following relegation and has used a relatively low budget to bring in exceptional additions to the squad.

Cline-Thomas, who according to Sky Sports (18 July) functions as Leeds’ co-owner and vice chairman, has had a good start to life in Yorkshire, but there is plenty left to do before the club is back where it needs to be. Promotion back to the top flight is vital.

An encouraging start under Daniel Farke has left them fifth in the Championship table before the second international break, while most of the new investments, namely Joel Piroe and Ethan Ampadu, have settled in superbly and provided needed quality to the squad.

They still have some financial issues to iron out. Per Leeds Live (11 October), Barcelona still owes Leeds £32.8million for Raphinha – money that would go a long way in the club’s long-term ambitions.

While practically the 49er’s full ownership and control of the club has been apparent for some time, many Leeds fans will be happy to officially see the back of Radrizzani and remain hopeful of a memorable first season under the American owners.

In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay has issued an update on the club’s requirements in the January transfer window.