LEEDS’ search for a new manager has come to an end after the club appointed Javi Gracia to the Elland Road dugout.
The former Watford boss has taken on the task of keeping the Whites in the Premier League, signing a “flexible contract” at the club.
Leeds sacked previous boss Jesse Marsch on February 6 after securing just four wins all season.
A host of coaches had been linked to the vacant managerial position, including Feyenoord’s Arne Slot, West Brom’s Carlos Corberan and Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola.
Former Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp had also emerged as a shock candidate for the position.
But Spanish boss Gracia has now been announced as the club’s next coach.
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A club statement read: “Leeds United are delighted to announce the club have agreed terms with Javi Gracia to become men’s first team head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit.
“The experienced 52-year-old has agreed a flexible contract at Elland Road.
“The club hope Gracia’s first game in charge of the Whites will be Saturday’s Premier League clash against Southampton at Elland Road, subject to obtaining the necessary work permissions.”
The 52-year-old has been out of work since leaving Qatar side Al Saad last June.
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However, football fans believe the club are set for relegation, with one fan declaring: “[Leeds] Must want relegation.”
A second said: “So basically Leeds want to guarantee relegation! This would be a disastrous hiring!”
A third fan added: “Awful appointment especially considering you have so many other options perfectly suited to the job, Ralph Hasenhuttl for example.”
Leeds fans were not too pleased either, and pointed critical fingers at the board.
One said: “What a bloody mess. The board have a lot to answer for. Dreadful.”
A second said: “Very dissapointing from the board. With an attacking exciting team like ours, we couldn’t land anyone with a decent record.
“Let’s hope he does a great job if he is appointed!”
Gracia’s CV in England saw him guide Watford to 11th place in the Premier League – their highest ever finish – and to an FA Cup final in 2019.
However, trigger happy Watford chiefs relieved him of his duties at the club just four games into the following season.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
