Bielsa’s desires are… unconventional
Leeds United rolled the dice this summer with the appointment of Marcelo Bielsa. The Argentine coach is nicknamed ‘El Loco’ for a reason – his methods are so demanding and unorthodox that they can sometimes drive players to breaking point. But on occasion, it can work well.
On the eve of Leeds’ first league game of the season – which they won 3-1 – it was reported that Bielsa had made his players pick up litter from around the club’s training ground for three hours to hammer home just how hard the fans work to be able to buy match tickets.
It seemed to work, as Leeds breezed past favourites to win the Championship Stoke City, playing slick football in the process.
Speaking on Spanish radio, Leeds midfielder Pablo Hernandez spoke recently about the Bielsa-enforced clean up around the training ground, hailing it as an effective way of reminding the players of their privilege.
“Marcelo puts a lot of emphasis on these aspects… the fans coming to watch us at the stadium, the price of tickets, of season tickets – it forces us to value the privileged position that we’re in. The fans make great sacrifices and we must do the same,” Hernandez said.
“I’ve played for different managers, but don’t remember being a part of anything like this, trying to put us in the skin of the club’s supporters,” he added.
Hernandez continued, thanking Leeds fans for their incredible support on away trips.
Stumbled across an appearance from Pablo Hernández on Spanish radio show @ellarguero after the weekend. Main notes from an #LUFC and litter-picking perspective… pic.twitter.com/SBcpGeTOlX
— Jamie Kemp (@jamiemkemp) August 10, 2018
Things are looking good for Leeds this season, as a newly instilled brand of football has helped them have the dream start to their Championship campaign, but as is always the case with Bielsa, it could all go pear shaped very quickly. Without wanting to dampen spirits at Elland Road, this form may not last until the end of the season.
