Leeds owner explains "tough" Marcelo Bielsa decision as tribute announced

Andrea Radrizzani has described the decision to sack Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa as the "toughest decision" he has had to make as chairman of the club.

The Peacocks have company with Bielsa following Saturday's 4-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur which leaves them just two points above the Premier League relegation zone.

Leeds ' latest defeat was their fourth in five games - a run which saw them concede 20 goals.

The 66-year-old was convinced that he could turn things around at Elland Road but his superiors took action by announcing his emotional departure on Sunday.

"This has been the toughest decision I have had to make during my tenure at Leeds United, taking into account all the success Marcelo has had at the club," Radrizzani admitted in a club statement which added that the club will plan a tribute.

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"With Marcelo as our head coach, we had three incredible campaigns and the good times returned to Elland Road. He changed the culture of the club and brought a winning mentality to us all.

"The moments created, particularly in the 2019/20 season and winning promotion to the Premier League, will of course live long in all our memories, myself and the fans included.

"However, I have to act in the best interest of the club and I believe a change is required now in order to secure our Premier League status. Recent results and performances have not met our expectations.

"We find ourselves in a precarious league position and I feel now is the right time to bring in a new head coach, in order to have an impact in the decisive stage of the season.

"Naturally, myself, along with everyone else at the club would like to thank Marcelo for his efforts and achievements and we wish him the very best for the future."

Former RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg boss Jesse Marsch is the heavy favourite to take over, with club confirming that they will "aim to announce" a replacement on Monday.

Marsch was sacked as manager of Leipzig in December, having earned his stripes in his native America before making the move across the Atlantic.

The 48-year-old will have a hard task living up to Bielsa's legacy, as the Argentine guided Leeds back to the Premier League in 2020 after a 16-year absence.

Director of football Victor Orta went on to say: "Since arriving at Leeds United Marcelo had a huge impact on the club, on a scale I have not seen before.

"He has created a legacy, overseeing major infrastructure improvements at Thorp Arch, uniting the supporters and the players, and giving a clear pathway for young players to transition into the first team.

"It is disappointing his reign has had to end in this manner, given the special times we have enjoyed in recent years, which have been some of the best in my career, but we cannot hide from recent results.

"I would like to thank Marcelo for his commitment and dedication, and I wish him every success going forwards."