Leeds United have confirmed this morning that they have parted company with manager Marcelo Bielsa.
The decision has been taken after the Whites' 4-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, which was their fourth loss in five Premier League games.
They have conceded a record 20 goals in February and Bielsa leaves with Leeds currently in 16th - just two points above the bottom three heading into the final 12 matches of the season.
However, the 66-year-old has done a remarkable job at the Whites since taking change in June 2018, transforming the club's fortunes on and off the pitch.
In his first season, Leeds narrowly missed out on promotion after losing the play-off semi-final to Derby County.
But Bielsa guided the Whites to the Championship title the following campaign, securing a return to the Premier League for the first time in 16 years.
During the club's return to the top-flight, Leeds finished ninth, earning the highest points tally by a newly promoted side since the 2000/01 season.
This campaign has proved to be difficult and the Whites has recorded just five Premier League wins which has led to Bielsa's departure.
Newcastle United are two points above Leeds in the table.
In a statement on the club website, Leeds chairman Andrea Radrizzani said: “This has been the toughest decision I have had to make during my tenure at Leeds United, taking into account all the success Marcelo has had at the club.
“With Marcelo as our head coach, we had three incredible campaigns and the good times returned to Elland Road. He changed the culture of the club and brought a winning mentality to us all. The moments created, particularly in the 2019/20 season and winning promotion to the Premier League, will of course live long in all our memories, myself and the fans included.
“However, 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.
“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.
“Naturally, myself, along with everyone else at the club would like to thank Marcelo for his efforts and achievements and we wish him the very best for the future.”
Director of football Victor Orta added: “Since arriving at Leeds United Marcelo had a huge impact on the club, on a scale I have not seen before.
“He has created a legacy, overseeing major infrastructure improvements at Thorp Arch, uniting the supporters and the players, and giving a clear pathway for young players to transition into the first team.
“It is disappointing his reign has had to end in this manner, given the special times we have enjoyed in recent years, which have been some of the best in my career, but we cannot hide from recent results.
“I would like to thank Marcelo for his commitment and dedication, and I wish him every success going forwards.”
