Jesse Marsch appointed as new Leeds United manager
The former RB Leipzig boss takes over from Marcelo Bielsa, who was sacked at the weekend
Last updated 1st Mar 2022
Leeds United have confirmed Jesse Marsch as their new manager, after Marcelo Bielsa was sacked following the 4-0 defeat to Tottenham.
The former RB Leipzig manager joins with Leeds 16th in the Premier League table, and just two points above the relegation zone.
The 48-year-old American, who's also overseen stints at Red Bull Salzburg and New York Red Bulls, will be in the dugout for Saturday's game against Leicester.
"I know what a big club Leeds is"
Speaking to the club website, Jesse Marsch said he was "honoured and excited" to join the club.
“It’s something I’m really excited about, I know what a big club Leeds is, I know ex-players who have played here and I’ve watched this club from afar for many years and I’m really honoured and excited to be here,” said Marsch.
“One of the things I love about this team right now is their commitment no matter how difficult the games have been, to play until the end, fight for each other, to never stop and to give everything to each other at every moment.
Marsch also praised former manger Marcelo Bielsa, saying his respect for what the Argentine had done at the club was "massive"
“When I was assistant coach with the US national team in my first full-time coaching job, our first game was against Chile and Marcelo Bielsa.
“I followed his career and watched what he has done from afar and certainly he is a hero here.
“How he has helped transform Leeds United into a Premier League team is pretty amazing.
“For me, I just want help to take the torch to the next phase, everything that has been done has laid and incredible foundation and coming in at this moment, I want to do everything I can to take the club into the next stage of our history."
"A new chapter"
Leeds' director of football, Victor Orta, has described the appointment as "a new chapter", saying the club is "excited" to welcome him.
“Jesse is someone we identified a number of years ago during his time at Red Bull Salzburg and we believe his philosophy and style of football aligns with that of the club and will suit the players very well.
“We have a long-term plan and firmly believe he can take Leeds United to the next level and are excited for what the future holds.”
Chief Executive Angus Kinnear added: “We are really pleased to have quickly secured the services of our first-choice head coach.
“Whilst the short-term objective for Jesse is obvious, we believe he has the courage and ambition to build on the strong foundations we have created over the last four years and elevate the performance of the club over the long-term. He had a great deal of success with New York Red Bulls and Red Bull Salzburg and has demonstrated during our many meetings that he is a great fit with the footballing culture of Leeds United.
“At this challenging time, it is important that the club remains united from top to bottom. The fans have been amazing throughout Andrea’s tenure and we have no doubt they will unite behind Jesse and ensure the team quickly returns to winning with style.”