Former Elland Road employee Salim Lamrani has issued his verdict on the relationship between Leeds United fans and manager Marcelo Bielsa. 

Bielsa took charge of the Yorkshire club in the summer of 2018 and has made them into one of the strongest teams in the Championship.

In his first season at the helm, they narrowly missed out on automatic promotion–finishing third and losing in the play-offs.

Lamrani was Bielsa's translator during the 2018/19 campaign but left in the summer after the pair's relationship reportedly soured.

It appears he still has a lot of respect for the Argentine coach, though, as he spoke very highly of him in a recent interview for Argentine news site La Nacion.

He said: "He conveys the conviction that it is possible to defeat any rival and after his steps there are always indelible emotions. Every beauty lover appreciates the football proposed by Marcelo Bielsa."

According to Lamrani, Bielsa's conviction and dedication are what have made him such a popular figure at Elland Road.

He explained: "The fans of Leeds United go to Elland Road for his unfailing love for the shirt, but also because they identify with the football of his coach who faces all rivals without any complex."

Bielsa has his side competing at the top of the division again this season. The Whites are second as things stand and are hoping to end their 16-year absence from the Premier League in May.

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The Verdict

Lamrani was at the centre of it all last season and is on the outside now, so in many ways is uniquely placed to provide this verdict.

Bielsa has quickly become a cult hero at Elland Road, for his unique style as much as the success that he has brought so far, so you feel many Leeds fans will agree with this claim from the manager's former translator.

You can only imagine his status if they're able to secure promotion this season.