Leeds United defender Robin Koch has praised manager Marcelo Bielsa, hailing his ‘clear plan’ and ‘meticulous’ nature.
The German defender moved to Elland Road in an £11.7m deal from Freiburg in the summer, with the club keen to improve their defence following promotion.
He’s been a regular since his arrival, playing 90 minutes in all of the club’s eight Premier League games so far.
The centre back has had plenty of adapting to do since his arrival, having had to accustom himself to Bielsa’s specific style of play as well as the differences between the Bundesliga and the Premier League.
The Argentine, as you’ll be well aware, is an eccentric character, to say the least, but Koch has no issue with that.
“He is a special character, but not crazy,” he told Express.
“He comes across to the team relatively calm and composed. Of course, he can also get louder sometimes.
“He has a clear plan, is very meticulous and goes into many details. He wants the players to follow his instructions exactly. There is a clear red thread running through him.”
Playing out from the back is no change for Koch, who was targeted specifically for his ability to do so.
However, like many a player, he has found himself quickly developing under Bielsa, whose free-flowing, attractive style of play has brought out the best in plenty at Elland Road.
Koch certainly feels the benefits, saying Leeds’ style is one that suits him down to the ground.
“With Leeds, we have shown that we are attacking against teams like Liverpool and Manchester City and we have had more possession than our opponents,” he said.
“This offensive style of play – even against big clubs – also suits me as a defender.
“Leeds was looking for a strong defender who could open the game from behind. The game in England is also simply a bit more physical and faster.”
One significant benefit of the move to Leeds so far has been recognition by the German national team, with this international break proving to be a big one.
Koch made his debut for Germany back in September last year but had only managed 90 minutes twice since.
However, this break has seen him completing 90 minutes in both the international friendly with the Czech Republic and the Nations League win over Ukraine.
And the Leeds defender certainly believes playing in the Premier League will help his chances down the line.
“It always depends on your performance, no matter in which league or club,” he added.
“But of course I might be challenged a bit more in the Premier League than in the Bundesliga.
“That’s undoubtedly one of the reasons why many boys from the national team have now moved to England.
“There you can prove yourself in a completely new league. That can certainly be a point that will pay off in the end.”
