Next Leeds manager: 49ers eye legendary Premier League star as two frontrunners drop out of contention
Leeds United are hoping to speak to former Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira over their managerial vacancy – after another major contender was crossed off their shortlist.
The Whites are under no ownership with 49ers Enterprises having bought out Andrea Radrizzani. The Italian’s reign ended on a disappointing note with Leeds dropping out of the Premier League with a whimper. A late season gamble on renowned firefighter Sam Allardyce could not even spare them from their fate.
With Leeds dropping into the second tier for the first time since 2020, the club are now preparing for wholesale changes. That will include a new management team – Nick Hammond has already been appointed as interim director of football – and several new players.
However, with the new EFL season starting in just 46 days, Leeds will be eager to quickly get things rolling.
Now it has emerged that legendary Arsenal star Vieira is in the running to become their new boss.
The 46-year-old Frenchman has experience in managing in the Premier League with the Eagles. His reign there was cruelly brought to a halt back in March after a tough run of fixtures. Palace ultimately pulled clear under the stewardship of veteran Roy Hodgson.
But there was a feeling among fans that Vieira too could have saved them from the drop.
Nonetheless, Vieira could be offered a route back into football at Elland Road.
Per widespread reporrs, he is one of two major contenders now in the frame for the vacancy. We reported last week how Daniel Farke was also a strong contender, with the German strongly in the frame.
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Next Leeds manager: Carlos Corberan out of the running
As it stands, Leeds will likely pick from the two men for the managerial vacancy.
However, The Sun reports that another contender in Scott Parker is also in the frame.
Nonetheless, two contenders have dropped out of contention in a matter of hours.
Firstly, Leeds can now officially forget about Andoni Iraola for the vacancy after he took charge at Premier League Bournemouth.
He was a candidate in February when the axe fell on Jesse Marsch and the Spaniard was also reportedly under consideration again.
However, his rapid appointment by the Cherries – on the same day they sacked Gary O’Neil – means the 40-year-old is no longer an option.
The Whites are also deciding against a move for the popular Carlos Corberan.
He was a name very much in Leeds’ thinking, especially given his long-standing connections with the club.
However, the club have decided against his move for two reasons. Firstly, they want to appoint a manager who boasts previous Premier League experience. And secondly, 49ers Enterprises are opting to target a manager who currently does not have ties to another club.
And with Corberan contracted to Championship rivals, West Brom, they have decided against making a move.
Leeds will hope to have their next boss in place before the end of the week. And 49ers Enterprises will hope the next man proves a big success and helps the club bounce back at the first time of asking.
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