Breaking News: Leeds United Crowned Championship Kings for Second Time in Five Years Under Daniel Farke; Fans Laud Marcelo Bielsa’s Impact as He Congratulates Successor

Leeds United: Bielsa’s Legacy Lives On as Farke Clinches ChampionshipTitle

Leeds United fans are still basking in the glow of their second Championship title in five years, this time under the stewardship of Daniel Farke. However, the shadow of Marcelo Bielsa, who achieved the same feat in 2020, looms large over Elland Road.

A New Chapter for Leeds United

Farke’s side have broken numerous records set under Bielsa, much to the delight of the Leeds faithful. Stuart Dallas, a stalwart at the club, has called for a truce in the comparisons between the two managers, stating that each has brought their unique style to the team.

"Bielsa was like a father figure," Dallas mused, "but Farke has taken us to new heights."

Bielsa’s Impact Still Felt Today

Bielsa’s influence on Leeds United was profound. He inherited a mid-table Championship side that looked in dire need of revitalization. But Bielsa, with his innovative tactics and unyielding belief in his players, transformed them into promotion contenders without any major surgery or investment.

"His legacy will live on for decades," said Henry Winter, leading football writer, "Not just at Leeds, but across football."

Pascal Struijk’s Heartfelt Gesture

In a touching tribute, Pascal Struijk wore both his 2020 Championship winner’s medal and the one he’d just won during the open-top bus parade. He, Patrick Bamford, and Illan Meslier are the only survivors from Bielsa’s promotion-winning team two years ago.

Marcelo Bielsa celebrates Leeds’ Championship triumph in 2020. (Credit: Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Leeds United Supporters React to Bielsa News

According to Henry Winter, Bielsa is thrilled for the city of Leeds. Fans have taken to social media to express their gratitude to the enigmatic Argentinian coach.

"I wish we’d have flown him over," one fan tweeted. "Only thing missing with that squad was celebrating promotion and the league like we did last Monday. #LUFC"

Another fan echoed these sentiments, "None of this would have been possible without Bielsa – he broke the cycle of mediocrity."

Marcelo Bielsa vs. Daniel Farke: A Combined XI

A combined Leeds team from Bielsa’s 2019/20 squad and Farke’s current lineup is a testament to the quality and depth the club has enjoyed under both managers. Here’s how we think a Leeds combined XI would look:

• Goalkeeper: Illan Meslier (2019/20)
• Right-back: Luke Ayling (2019/20)
• Centre-back: Ben White (2019/20)
• Centre-back: Joe Rodon (2024/25)
• Left-back: Junior Firpo (2024/25)
• Defensive Midfield: Ethan Ampadu (2024/25)
• Central Midfield: Ao Tanaka (2024/25)
• Right Wing: Dan James (2024/25)
• Attacking Midfield: Pablo Hernandez (2019/20)
• Left Wing: Manor Solomon (2024/25)
• Centre-forward: Patrick Bamford (2019/20)

Leeds United’s Spanish midfielder Pablo Hernandez (R) embraces Leeds United’s Argentinian head coach Marcelo Bielsa (L) as he leaves the game. (Photo by LYNNE CAMERON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Did you know? Bielsa once said, "Football, at its highest level, is about problem-solving." Both he and Farke have proven themselves adept at solving problems at Leeds.

Pro Tip: Want to dive deeper into Leeds United’s recent history? Check out our interactive timeline of the club’s recent highs and lows.

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