What Leeds’ Jesse Marsch sacking means for Man Utd & why former coach may be in Old Trafford dugout

Chris Armas could be in charge when Leeds United face Manchester United on Wednesday.
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Leeds United have announced the departure of manager Jesse Marsch following Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.

It’s a result that leaves the Yorkshire club hovering just above the relegation zone, with goal difference alone keeping them ahead of 18th-place Everton. It’s a seismic decision from the Leeds hierarchy, especially given they play Manchester United twice this week.

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The Whites visit Old Trafford on Wednesday in a game rescheduled from September due to the Queen’s funeral. United then head to Elland Road on Sunday and will be hoping for another six points this week, as tentative hope of a late title tilt grows.

There’s also doubt surrounding who will take charge of Leeds on Wednesday, with The Athletic’s Phil Hay claiming coaches Rene Maric, Cameron Toshack and Pierre Barrieu have also left the club along with Marsch. However, he adds coach Chris Armas remains at Leeds despite joining just two weeks ago.

Armas may be a memorial figure for Red Devils supporters as the American was part of Ralf Rangnick’s coaching staff last season. The former New York Red Bulls and Toronto manager joined United in December 2021 but left at the end of the season alongside Rangnick.

However, there is no confirmation yet who will take charge of Leeds this week, or on their search for a permanent replacement. Fabrizio Romano has said it’s ‘unlikely’ the club will return for former manager Marcelo Bielsa.

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The news on Monday also means United could be in for a raucous reception at Elland Road this weekend, with Everton proving last Saturday that a managerial change can lead to an immediate response from a relegation side. The Toffees were surprise winners against table-toppers Arsenal at Goodison Park.

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