Former Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has reportedly turned down a return to management with Argentinian giants River Plate. The 67-year-old is still without a job having left Elland Road back in February but looked in line to return to Athletic Club Bilbao, only for the presidential vote to go in a different direction.
Currently River Plate boss Marcelo Gallardo has revealed he won't continue in 2023 with reports in Argentina claiming former Manchester City defender Martin Demichelis is the favourite for the job. The club had reportedly been in talks with the Leeds boss about taking over the reins.
However, Bielsa said he would not manage a side in the same division as his beloved Newell’s Old Boys. The clubs stadium is named after their former manager and they still have a fond relationship.
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Bielsa said: “I could not manage in a league that has one of its teams whose stadium bears my name.” Leeds United are expected to follow suit and rename Thorp Arch after the iconic Whites boss, with the club waiting for a response.
It's unlikely he'll return to management in Argentina given his loyalties to his former club. Argentina legend Hernan Crespo and Ricardo Gareca are also linked with the River Plate job.
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