Leeds United have done it; they will be a Premier League team once again next season.
It has been a torrid campaign for the Whites who under their legendary manager in Marcelo Bielsa endured trialling times at Elland Road.
He was eventually given the boot and in stepped Jesse Marsch who through the help of Gandhi and Mother Theresa, found a way to keep Leeds in the top-flight.
A 2-1 win over Brentford on the final day of the campaign was enough to seal their place among the country’s elite next season, condemning Burnley in the process.
It felt like a victory against all odds at the beginning of the day but by the skin of their teeth safety was secured.
Front and centre of the celebrations at full-time was Raphinha, who joined the away end to raucously celebrate with supporters. If that is to be his final act as a Leeds player, it was one jubilant way to wave farewell.
Unsurprisingly, a certain Victor Orta was right in the thick of things too. The outspoken director has never been afraid to cause controversy and show emotions, something he did so strikingly on Sunday evening.
Leeds United’s Director of Football, Victor Orta, does his best to shine the spotlight on Jesse Marsch… #LUFC pic.twitter.com/2vdSS5ljqo
— The Athletic UK (@TheAthleticUK) May 22, 2022
However, it wasn’t something that went down too well with supporters on social media. Indeed, Orta could be seen celebrating with Marsch but he was very quickly to get his point across; “I was the man to bring him to the club and I deserve the praise.”
It may have looked like he wanted to steer the congratulations Marsch’s way but arguably Leeds are in this mess because of his decisions.
The action on the field of play has been rather dismal but ultimately, the decision to sack Bielsa, someone held in such legendary status in Leeds, was his. His recruitment has also left a lot to be desired with the likes of Rodrigo, Junior Firpo and Dan James failing to live up to expectations.
Certain segments of the fanbase were rather livid with his actions at full-time too, with some on Twitter berating his attempts to show Marsch in good faith.
The fact of the matter is that the American does deserve to be backed heading into next season and implement his ideas. However, Orta’s off the field and on the pitch actions will both need improving.
If Leeds are to rise up the table again next term, they will need him in top form when it comes to player recruitment this summer.
