Leeds United managerial target Arne Slot has now personally ruled himself out of contention for the job.
The Lowdown: Leeds searching
Leeds are searching for a new manager after sacking Jesse Marsch at the beginning of the week, with the club identifying the likes of Andoni Iraola, Ange Postecoglou and Arne Slot as potential candidates.
The Whites have also reportedly approached the latter man over taking Leeds’ managerial vacancy.
Initial reports indicated that there were encouraging noises coming from Slot’s camp, despite Feyenoord being determined to keep hold of him, however a more recent update from the manager now means that Victor Orta will have to look elsewhere.
The Latest: Ruled out
Speaking to the media ahead of Feyenoord’s trip to Heerenveen, the 44-year-old said:Â “It is true that I will stay with Feyenoord, I can say that with this one. That is clear, fans do not have to be afraid.
“The club has been clear. It was a compliment that a club like Leeds was interested, but we are doing something great with Feyenoord. We are in a great position in the league, the cup and Europe.
“There is no disappointment. It’s certainly not a punishment to stay here.” (via Sky Sports)
The Verdict: Disappointing news
The Dutchman has been hailed by the media as a manager who ‘belongs at the top level’, and judging by his record at Feyenoord, this is a fair assessment, given that he has averaged 2.15 points per match, mainly playing 4-3-3, with his side currently sitting second in the Eredivisie.
As such, it is a disappointing development that Slot is not interested in leaving the Netherlands, but Leeds still have a number of options available to them, namely Iraola, who they are now expected to make a fresh approach for.
The Rayo Vallecano boss has a proven history of success, with a Cypriot Super Cup and a La Liga 2 promotion to his name, and given that he is just 40-years-old, he is at the right age to implement some fresh ideas at Elland Road.
