Leeds United: Marcelo Bielsa's refusal to adapt approach cost him at Leeds

Leeds United's downward spiral into relegation trouble made it clear something had to change.

The one thing everyone knew would not be changing was manager Marcelo Bielsa's philosophy.

It meant that if Bielsa would not change, then he would have to be replaced, and so it has proved.

Bielsa's departure, a decision undoubtedly taken with huge reluctance, closes a chapter in which the enigmatic manager has made himself an iconic figure in West Yorkshire, not only restoring Leeds to the Premier League but also giving back respectability and credibility to this proud club.

The 66-year-old Argentine's stellar reputation among his peers and his status with adoring Leeds United fans is based on steadfast principles that football for the masses must be a front-foot thrill ride designed to deliver excitement and brighten lives.

When it works it is glorious spectacle, but when it falls apart it leads to Leeds' current predicament after the 4-0 loss at home to Tottenham that leaves them in 16th place in the table having conceded 60 goals, more than any other side in the division.

And in recent weeks, Bielsa's refusal to alter his approach has left Leeds looking bereft, vulnerable and exposing a style that, while as pleasing on the eye as any, is fragile and fraught with danger.

Bielsa, however, has left a body of work behind at Elland Road that will make him a hero forever with the fervent Leeds support, who have loved the entertainment he has provided for them as well as his humble approach that chimed perfectly with the characteristics of the area.

Leeds fans have resolutely refused to dilute their admiration for Bielsa, even in the face of grim recent evidence, but his unbending insistence on his own style and refusal to seemingly