Hiding from Leeds United’s recent dire results was not an option when it came to Victor Orta and the board ending Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure.
The Whites have slid towards the Premier League’s relegation zone in recent weeks with a winless run of six matches and 20 goals shipped in five games.
Despite three seasons of unparalleled success under Bielsa, the weak form which has dominated this campaign has proved too much for the club to bear.
Director of football Orta has enjoyed arguably a closer relationship with Bielsa than anyone else at Elland Road as the link between head coach and board and players.
Orta was the man who first recommended Bielsa as the head coach Andrea Radrizzani should pursue in the summer of 2018 and been one of his main cheerleaders throughout the past 1,300-plus days.
Speaking for the first time alongside the announcement, Orta admitted it was disappointing Bielsa’s reign ended in this way.
“Since arriving at Leeds United, Marcelo had a huge impact on the club, on a scale I have not seen before,” he said.
“He has created a legacy, overseeing major infrastructure improvements at Thorp Arch, uniting the supporters and the players, and giving a clear pathway for young players to transition into the first team.
“It is disappointing his reign has had to end in this manner, given the special times we have enjoyed in recent years, which have been some of the best in my career, but we cannot hide from recent results.
“I would like to thank Marcelo for his commitment and dedication, and I wish him every success going forwards.”
