Leeds United right-back Luke Ayling has revealed he was “shocked and surprised” when he learned Marcelo Bielsa had left the club, admitting there were “a few tears” upon his exit. The Argentine departed Elland Road in February following a streak of disappointing results that left the Whites fighting relegation.
He was let go after a 4-0 home defeat to Tottenham that followed a 6-0 thrashing by Liverpool, a 4-2 defeat to Manchester United and a 3-0 loss to Everton. Bielsa left Leeds with the leakiest defence in the Premier League this season - which is still the case - but, of course, that is not what most will remember him by.
His Premier League promotion success ensured his name was etched in Elland Road folklore as he became a much-loved figure, not just at the club, but within the whole city. His exit was felt by many, including Ayling who described the goodbye as “horrible.” He told the Daily Star: "I was shocked and surprised (when he left). But that's football, it can be harsh.
