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William Jackson

Former Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa turns down job offer

Marcelo Bielsa has reportedly turned down the chance to step back into management with Brazilian club Santos. The former Leeds United boss was offered the chance to take over at the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A club this month, but according to South American journalist Cesar Luis Merlo, Bielsa has opted against the move.

Merlo claims Bielsa did not see the project at Santos, who sit just six points off the relegation zone with 11 top flight matches remaining, as interesting from a sporting perspective. He also claims that the Argentinian has other offers on the table which he is currently mulling over.

Bielsa has been out of work since his departure from Elland Road back in February, with Leeds making the decision to part ways with the legendary coach during a prolonged slump of form. He is still considered a favourite in West Yorkshire, though, after taking Leeds back to the top flight following a 16-year absence.

Read more: Leeds United's Wilfried Gnonto tipped to play key role on international stage

The 67-year-old last made an appearance in the public eye back in June during Athletic Bilbao’s presidential elections. Bielsa was asked to return to La Liga to coach the Spanish side by Iñaki Arechabaleta, a candidate in the election.

However, Arechabaleta finished second in the vote to Jon Urriate, who made the decision to appoint former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde. Bielsa holds legendary status at Bilbao after leading the club to the Europa League final during his two-year stint in northern Spain.

He hasn’t coached in South America since taking on the role at Bilbao back in 2011, with roles at Marsielle, Lille and Leeds coming since then, as well as a two-day stint at Lazio. Where he will work next remains to be seen but Whites supporters will certainly be keeping a keen eye on his next move.

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