21 February 2023 , 15:32
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Leeds United have confirmed the appointment of former Watford manager Javi Gracia as their search for a new boss finally comes to an end.
The Yorkshire club made the decision to sack American Jesse Marsch earlier this month but have been left frustrated after numerous moves fell by the wayside. Over two weeks after making the decision to make a change, Leeds have finally found his successor.
Gracia has penned a contract until the end of the season at Elland Road as he attempts to haul the club away from relegation trouble. Leeds currently sit 19th but just two points from safety.
A club statement announced: "Leeds United are delighted to announce the club have agreed terms with Javi Gracia to become men’s first team head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit.
"The experienced 52-year-old has agreed a flexible contract at Elland Road. The club hope Gracia’s first game in charge of the Whites will be Saturday’s Premier League clash against Southampton at Elland Road, subject to obtaining the necessary work permissions."
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Gracia’s first game in charge is a titanic one with a clash against relegation rivals Southampton at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon. The match will signal Gracia’s first return to England following a spell in charge of Watford.
The 52-year-old was appointed at Vicarage Road in January 2018 after replacing Marco Silva. He led Watford to a place in 2018/19 season’s FA Cup final and Premier League safety but was sacked shortly into the 2019/20 campaign after a horrendous start to the campaign.
Gracia can also count the likes of Malaga, Rubin Kazan and Valencia among his previous employers, whilst he most recently took the reins of Saudi outfit Al-Sadd after replacing current Barcelona head coach Xavi. His arrival in Leeds brings to an end a hugely frustrating search for a new manager.
Rayo Vallecano's Andoni Iraola was initially thought to be among the frontrunners but a deal proved difficult, after another favourite Carlos Corberan elected to pen a new deal with West Bromwich Albion. Ex-Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder was also touted to be taking over but quickly fell out of contention.
Elsewhere, former boss Marcelo Bielsa was linked with a return but it is unclear whether there was any interest from either party. Whilst Leeds were searching for a new manager, under-21 boss Michael Skubala was handed responsibility by owner Andrea Radrizzani.
The 40-year-old has so far overseen three matches as caretaker but is winless following a draw and a defeat apiece against Manchester United, whilst they also were downed by Everton in their most recent outing.