Paul Robinson would like Mauricio Pochettino to replace Marcelo Bielsa when the latter eventually leaves Leeds United, although he has admitted how difficult it would be to lure the former Tottenham boss to Elland Road.
The Lowdown: Bielsa future always uncertain
This is Bielsa’s fourth season as Leeds boss, and he is of course hugely popular amongst the club’s supporters.
However, his future at the club is constantly up for debate. After all, he is 66 years old and therefore does not have too long left in the game, and his current contract is set to run out at the end of the season (leedsunited.com) as he continues to pen one-year deals.
The Latest: Robinson eyes replacement
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, former Whites star Robinson suggested Pochettino as Bielsa’s successor. He said:
“For me, Pochettino would be great.
“It’s a pipe dream at the moment because Leeds are nowhere near attracting a manager with the calibre of Pochettino to succeed Bielsa.
“If you look at where he is now at PSG and look at where Leeds are in the Premier League table, Leeds have to be higher to attract a manager of that calibre and at the moment, that’s nowhere near happening.
“It’s a pipe dream.”
The Verdict: Aiming too high
Bielsa is a legend of the game, with the likes of Pep Guardiola (Sky Sports) and Pochettino (via Give Me Sport) himself citing the Argentinian as an inspiration. As such, Leeds will need to replace with a top-quality manager when he does depart, but Pochettino is surely unattainable at this point.
Would you want Pochettino after Bielsa?
Yes
No
As the manager of Paris Saint-Germain, he is in a privileged position as he is able to field a side including the likes of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
Even if the man hailed ‘a football genius‘ by former Spurs player Heurelho Gomes were to be sacked by PSG before Bielsa departs, to then move to Leeds would be a substantial step down, with all due respect to the club.
Of course, the Yorkshire outfit would love to have him, but they may have to set their sights lower until they can compete for European competitions.
In other news, one former Premier League ace has made this Kalvin Phillips claim.
About the Author
