LONDON:
Leeds on Tuesday announced the appointment of former Watford manager Javi Gracia as the new manager of the attacking threat. Premier League club.
The Spaniard, who led the Hornets to the 2019 FA Cup final, has signed what Leeds described as a “flexible” contract to replace Jesse Marsch, who was sacked on February 6.
Leeds expected to make an early appearance, but missed some high targets.
“Leeds United are delighted to announce that the club has agreed with JaviGracia to become their first men’s head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit,” the club said in a statement.
“The experienced 52-year-old has agreed a flexible contract at Elland Road.”
Leeds sacked Marsch after a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.
Interim manager Michael Skubala under 21 years ago although the club’s manager Andrea Radrizzani had previously promised an immediate appointment.
They last won a game in the Premier League on November 5 and are 19th in the table, just one point above bottom club Southampton, who they host on Saturday .
Gracia took Watford to the FA Cup final in 2019, which they lost 6-0 to Manchester City, but was dismissed at the start of the following season after a poor start to the Premier League.
He managed Valencia and Al Saad in Qatar.
The search for Marsch’s replacement was met with difficulties. Talks with former Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder broke down, Rayo Vallecano blocked a move for Andoni Iraola and Arne Slot decided to stay at Feyenoord after being approached.
Carlos Corberan, who previously worked under Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds, signed a new contract with West Brom, while it was reported in Argentina that the former manager of River Plate Marcelo Gallardo eliminated him from the running.
Leeds, two points from safety, are winless in their last 10 league games.
The club, who won the English top flight in 1992, was relegated from the Premier League in 2004 and did not return until 2020.
This is their second game of relegation, only saving their top spot on the final day of the competition last season.
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