After a four-game tenure, Sam Allardyce has left Leeds United following their relegation from the Premier League. Allardyce, 68, had taken over from Javi Gracia on 3 May and was unable to prevent Leeds’ return to the Championship after a three-season stay in the top flight. Allardyce expressed his honour at managing Leeds United and their incredible fan base, but felt that taking on the challenge of a long-term project was not something he could commit to at this stage in his career. Leeds chief executive Angus Kinnear thanked Allardyce for being brave enough to take on the challenge and do all he could to save the club. Despite Allardyce’s efforts, Leeds were beaten 4-1 by Tottenham on the final day of the season and finished five points shy of safety.
Allardyce had become Leeds’ third non-interim manager of a turbulent season that began under Jesse Marsch, who had guided them to safety on the final day of the 2021-22 campaign but was sacked after less than a year in charge on 6 February. Javi Gracia then lifted the club above the relegation zone on goal difference with 11 points from 11 games, only for a 4-1 defeat at Bournemouth to spell the end for him and director of football Victor Orta. Allardyce’s first press conference drew headlines as he likened himself to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta. Despite a 2-1 defeat at City in his first game, Allardyce managed to secure a comeback 2-2 draw at home to Newcastle United in their subsequent game, leaving him “sad” at their demise three years after earning promotion in impressive style under Marcelo Bielsa. An announcement on a new Leeds United head coach will be made in the coming weeks.