Leeds United CEO Angus Kinnear says there was a 'grieving process' among the board following the sacking of Marcelo Bielsa last season. Bielsa was sacked in February following a 4-0 defeat to Tottenham at Elland Road, which left the Whites in the relegation zone in the Premier League, having only won two of their previous 13 games.
Given Bielsa's immense success at the club and popularity among the fanbase, it was seen as a controversial decision to sack the Argentinian, which angered some supporters. However, Kinnear says the club made the 'right decision', and he also revealed that there were times when Bielsa 'felt he was bigger than the club'.
“We had to make a decision, and I think, ultimately, we made the right decision and we’d do the same again," Kinnear told The Square Ball Podcast.
READ MORE: Gary Neville makes Leeds United 'sink' claim amid Premier League predictions
"We were in a grieving process. We’d gone through the most fantastic three years, and there was always a sense that it was probably going to be the last season, and that it would be a mutual decision that we’d have to evolve from his management, but we wanted that last season to be a season he deserved.
“I totally empathise with the fans. There were times when he felt he was bigger than the club, and what we had to remember is that nobody is bigger than the club, and ultimately, that’s what we have to protect.
“I completely understand the emotions surrounding his departure.”
READ NEXT:
Leeds United's Lewis Bate sets loan target after leaving Elland Road for League One
Leeds United transfer news LIVE: Bate exit confirmed with Che Adams and Arnaud Kalimuendo latest
Leeds United have had a dressing room wake-up call from Jesse Marsch ahead of Wolves
Jesse Marsch provides Leeds United injury latest as Liam Cooper ruled out of Wolves clash
Jesse Marsch details Dani van den Heuvel recovery after Leeds United star's 'worrying' car crash
