Radrizzani reveals his three-year Premier goal

HAVING TAKEN Leeds United into the Premier League, Andrea Radrizzani’s next goal is to establish them there over the next three years.

To do that, he wants the Whites to stay ambitious but grounded.

For the first time in 17 years, they are preparing for top-flight football, and negotiations for new signings began before the transfer window opened on Monday.

Top-half finishes for newlypromoted Sheffield United in the season just gone and Wolverhampton Wanderers before them show it is possible to thrive as Premier League new boys, but chairman Radrizzani is realistic enough to know the first two seasons will be very difficult.

“I have a clear vision,” he said. “I need first to secure the team in the Premier League for the next three years.

“The first two will be the most difficult. If we stay for three years at least then we can have a very bright future, aiming to be just behind the top six.”

The Blades finished ninth in 2019-20 but play-off winners Aston Villa only escaped relegation by a point, whilst Norwich City went down.

Mere survival is of no interest to Radrizzani, whose plans to expand Elland Road will kick in if and when Leeds are re-established in the top division.

“I had to change the culture of this club,” explained Radrizzani.

“When I arrived (in 2017) there were great people but they would be happy with average, they didn’t have ambition or an expectation to succeed.

“We have changed the mentality of everyone. This is the most important impact I have had.

“When you are exposed to verbal abuse or even seeing my team like Victor (Orta, the sporting director) abused I suffer a lot but that process helps me to enjoy (success) more.

“It’s important to stay grounded. I can find my balance and be more focused on the future to work calmly.”

As well as strengthening the squad for a higher standard of football, Bielsa’s future also has to be secured with his contract up.

The unpredictable Argentinian has been fundamental to the on-field transformation so supporters will not rest easy until he has put pen to paper.

“It’s an honour for Marcelo to be in charge of a club like this,” said Radrizzani. “We don’t have to plead for anyone to stay.”