Last season was one to forget for most Leeds players and fans. Despite the excitement of staying up on the last day of the campaign, many could have gone without the very real scare of relegation.
Jesse Marsch was able to get the job done and keep his squad in the top league but was never truly able to implement his style of play. This was a group built for Bielsa ball and had only known that form and tactics for parts of the past four years.
With the change in managers, the summer has been the biggest change since the firing of the great, Marcelo Bielsa.
Bielsa preferred a smaller squad and that was ultimately one of the main downfalls of his tenure at Elland Road. Now, Marsch has had an opportunity to build depth to the team, especially at midfield.
Additionally, Marsch has players that have played under him and are familiar with his style. This has been a big step forward during training and pre-season matches.
Although the area of concern right now is left back due to the injury to Junior Firpo and the recent transfer of Leif Davis to Ipswich Town FC, the strength on the other side of the backline is impressive.
Rasmus Kristensen was brought on board to bring toughness and stability to the position. It also is another player that has experience playing under Marsch.
You couldn't write this! 🤯
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 18, 2022
Leeds have completed a remarkable second-half comeback from 2-0 down 😱
Luke Ayling grabs the winner in the 91st minute 😲 pic.twitter.com/seaEYKs78a
What Is the Sneaky Positive That Benefits Leeds?
The sneaky positive to this move and Marsch’s tactics will be the emergence of Luke Ayling. Like many Leeds players, Ayling had a season to forget. No greater example of this than the way Aying’s season ended with a careless red card.
Kristensen will be able to give Ayling time to recover properly from an injury that required surgery. In Kristensen, Ayling will have a perfect example of what is expected of the left back under Marsch.
Marsch likes to pack the middle of the field and the formation lacks width. The width will be created by the fullbacks and that will play well into Ayling’s game. Ayling likes to move the ball up the pitch, whether it be from a long pass or by himself.
The importance of Ayling’s style will help create chances from the outside. Kristensen was brought to Elland Road to receive most of the minutes, but do not be surprised if he is challenged by a fresh Ayling.
The importance of depth, like Ayling, will pay off in cup matches. Under Bielsa, the cup matches were not taken seriously. This squad will have the depth to extend their stay in the tournament.