It is well documented that Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa has a plethora of admirers from many different continents, especially the ones he has managed in. But one man in particular, a man that has built his own cult following, is Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, who believes Bielsa to be one of, if not the best coach in the world.
Last week the Whites moved to sign exciting young forward Ian Poveda from the Citizens, bringing the 19-year-old England youth international in on a free transfer from the Premier League Champions, a move which many believe to be a very astute one by the West Yorkshire outfit.
Guardiola himself also believes that the move over the Pennines is a perfect fit for Poveda and will be the best thing for him when it comes to career progression under the tutorship of Marcelo Bielsa.
As reported yesterday, during a Manchester City press conference Guardiola was asked about the recent departure where he proceeded to heap praise on both the player himself and the manager who would now be responsible for his development.
🗣 "Leeds United is an incredible challenge, to be training for one of the best or maybe the best manager in the world…"
✍️ Pep Guardiola on the decision to allow forward Ian Poveda to leave Manchester City last week.#MCFC | #LUFC pic.twitter.com/sxtZBb6dnC
— Sporting Life 🎯🔴🎾⛳️🥊🏏🏉 🏈 (@SportingLifeFC) January 26, 2020
Praise indeed as the fans at Elland Road seek assurances on what to expect from the player, this will certainly raise the hopes further on the prospects of Ian Poveda in a Leeds United jersey.
Poveda himself named Bielsa as a big reason in his decision to join Leeds, with many other clubs both domestically and in Europe sought his signature.
Here is what the player said upon his arrival at Leeds United…
“I’m very, very pleased, I know that Leeds United are a big club,” said Poveda.
“I know Leeds won the league the year before it turned into the Premier League and I believe they should be back there.
“I’m an attacking player, I can play right wing, left wing or in attacking midfield, I like to dribble with the ball, link up the play, score goals, create chances, assist and I work hard for the team.
“I’ve had great experiences at all my previous clubs, I learnt a lot especially when I was away at Barcelona and it’s definitely added to how I am as player.
“I’m very excited to work under Bielsa, I know he improves players and that’s what I’m looking to do under his guidance.
“I met a couple of my teammates when I was going through to have my medical, I’m very happy and they made me feel very welcome.
“I’m here to help the team as much as possible, to get promoted and restore this great club back to where it belongs.”
The fans in West Yorkshire will hope the player hits the ground running as they seek a return to the top flight this season.
