Sam Allardyce replaces Javi Gracia as Leeds manager
By Sean Walsh
Leeds United have confirmed that Sam Allardyce has become their new manager, replacing Javi Gracia in the dugout with immediate effect.
The Whites are currently out of the Premier League relegation zone on goal difference only with just four games remaining.
Gracia had been brought in to steady the ship following Jesse Marsch's dismissal, but the Spaniard won just three of his 12 games in charge at Elland Road and has now been given his marching orders.
90min reported on Tuesday that Leeds would sack director of football Victor Orta - which was confirmed later in the day - while Allardyce would take the head coach gig.
Leeds have now announced their move to bring in relegation-battling specialist Allardyce, who has been out of work since leaving West Brom in 2021 after failing to save them from the drop.
A club statement on the news reads: "Leeds United can confirm Javi Gracia will leave the club after 12 games in charge. Zigor Aranalde, Mikel Antia and Juan Solla, who joined alongside Gracia, will also leave the club.
"We thank Javi and his team for their efforts under difficult circumstances.
"The remaining four games of the season will be overseen by experienced head coach Sam Allardyce. Allardyce will be assisted by former MK Dons, Charlton Athletic and Oxford United manager Karl Robinson.
"His first game in charge of the Whites will be Saturday’s Premier League away trip at Manchester City."
Leeds' remaining Premier League fixtures
Leeds' fate is in their own hands, but they are without a win in their last five games, with their last victory coming against 18th-placed Nottingham Forest at the beginning of April.
Allardyce's first match pits his new Leeds side against title-chasing Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on May 6.
The Whites return to Elland Road next week to take on high-flying Newcastle before a crunch match against fellow strugglers West Ham at London Stadium.
Leeds end the season at home to Tottenham on the final day.
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