Leeds United's figurehead of revival and first-team manager Marcelo Bielsa has left the club with immediate effect.
The 66-year-old took charge of Leeds following the Whites' 13th place finish in the Championship during 2017/18, before guiding the team back to the Premier League in 2020.
Bielsa is revered among Leeds United supporters for his achievements at Elland Road, whilst also evoking a palpable sense of pride and unity within the city during his three-and-a-half year stay.
Majority shareholder and chairman Andrea Radrizzani has described the decision to relieve Bielsa of his duties as the 'toughest' of his tenure.
Leeds are currently 16th in the Premier League table, battling against the growing fear of relegation back to the Championship after a succession of concerning results.
"I have to act in the best interest of the club and I believe a change is required now in order to secure our Premier League status. Recent results and performances have not met our expectations," Radrizzani said in a statement released on Sunday morning.
“We find ourselves in a precarious league position and I feel now is the right time to bring in a new head coach, in order to have an impact in the decisive stage of the season," he added.
Leeds United have also pledged to commemorate Bielsa's time at the club with a 'permanent tribute' to the Argentine.
"Plans for a permanent tribute to Marcelo at Elland Road are under way and more information will be released in due course," the club stated.
Bielsa leaves having earned promotion with Leeds United in 2020, as well as securing a top half Premier League finish with the Whites last term.
He departs with his reputation amongst the club's supporters intact, regarded as one of Leeds' greatest ever managers.
