Leeds United’s Epic Comeback and the Orta Connection
Leeds United have sensationally clawed their way back into the Premier League after the disappointment of the 2022-23 relegation. Daniel Farke’s Championship campaign was nothing short of historic, as he guided The Whites to a staggering 100 points.
That tally not only eclipses any total in Leeds’ proud history but also surpasses Marcelo Bielsa’s previous best. Farke’s masterclass has revived the club’s status, turning despair into jubilation at Elland Road.
Yet Leeds still sit in limbo with two fixtures remaining in the top flight, and the 49ers-backed ownership are already eyeing new signings. While fans await the retained list, an intriguing report from Spain about former director Victor Orta is sure to raise eyebrows.
Sevilla Set to Axe Orta After Tumultuous Spell
Victor Orta’s move to Sevilla in summer 2023 was greeted with optimism, but his tenure quickly spiraled into a roller-coaster of poor signings and managerial misfires. The Spaniards, once a Champions League regular, found themselves battling relegation under his reign.
Since replacing legendary transfer chief Monchi, Orta has overseen a slide down the La Liga table. Sevilla missed out on top-half finishes and were dragged into a survival scrap this season—far cry from those consecutive fourth-place finishes under Monchi.
According to Deportes COPE, Sevilla have confirmed they will relieve Orta of his duties after securing safety with a 3-0 win over Leganés. It’s a long-overdue move that underlines just how swiftly fortunes can change in football’s cutthroat executive world.
Why Leeds Fans Have a Love-Hate Relationship with Orta
When Orta arrived at Leeds in 2017, he earned plaudits for appointing Marcelo Bielsa and building a scouting network that spanned Europe. Under his watch, gems like Pascal Struijk, Crysencio Summerville and Mateo Joseph arrived, laying the groundwork for future success.
He also masterminded high-profile deals, landing Raphinha, Illan Meslier for just £5 million and turning Patrick Bamford into a top Premier League striker. Orta’s early signings delivered a blend of potential and immediate impact that thrilled supporters.
However, the final year saw a dramatic downturn. Empowering Jesse Marsch, backing questionable transfers and eventually sacking Bielsa left fans furious. His abrupt departure after a 4-1 loss at Bournemouth remains a bitter memory, cementing his status as a divisive figure in Leeds’ history.