Leeds United have confirmed that chairman Andrea Radrizanni has exercised the option to extend Marcelo Bielsa’s contract for a second season.
Speculation around the Argentine’s future had continued to float following the club’s dramatic defeat to Derby County in the Championship play-off semi-finals, which left the Peacocks facing another campaign outside of the Premier League.
The Yorkshire-based side were keen for the former Athletic Bilbao and Marseille boss to remain at Elland Road after capturing the hearts of the supporters in a dramatic first campaign with the Yorkshire outfit.
In a statement issued by the club, it was said that Bielsa met with the Board of Directors on a number of occasions this week and confirmed his intention to continue with his role in charge of the side.
That means that the Robins will face the former Lille boss next season in the Championship again, following two defeats last season and an acrimonious social media posting from owner Andrea Radrizzani following the 0-1 win at Ashton Gate - following 'sockgate' as several away fans were ejected from the home end of Ashton Gate.
Bielsa penned a two-year deal in June 2018 with the Whites and the club maintained the right to extend or terminate the agreement at the end of the first year.
Following a superb season, where Leeds achieved their highest points total since promotion from League One in the 2000-10 season, it was certain that Leeds would not terminate the deal.
Questions did though orientate around whether Bielsa wanted to remain at the club after missing out on promotion but the 63-year-old remains committed to the cause.
Bielsa and his team - who face a tough summer with little money to spend as confirmed by Radrizzani himself - are expected to challenge for promotion again next season. And Bristol City will hope to be up there with them.
