Sardinian media confirm Leeds United arrival, will run the club in Cellino’s absence

 

Sardinian newspaper Isola24sport have reported in the last few hours that Francesco Marroccu has finally been made the sporting director of Leeds United. The Italian worked under Massimo Cellino at Cagliari when the Leeds United owner was the president of the Serie A side.

There has been speculation in recent days Marroccu would be installed as the new sporting director of the Championship side after being linked with the club throughout the summer. We reported in June when he left his post with Ascoli, Cellino was keen to team up with Marroccu again, and therefore held talks with him.

In recent weeks Marroccu has been seen at Leeds United’s training complex, with claims it was a matter of time before he was given the job. Despite these reports Leeds United have yet to announce this officially.

Another surprising claim made by Isola24Sport is Marroccu will be in charge of the club in the absence of Cellino when he travels to Miami or other business engagements. The former Ascoli man has experience as an executive director whilst working under Cellino, and therefore will be trusted to manage the day to day running of the club.

The Italian was linked with a reunion with Cellino last year after claims he was in the running for the Leeds United sporting director role.

Marroccu had just resigned from his position at Cagliari after they were relegated in the 2014/15 season, but instead of coming to England to replace Nicola Salerno at Leeds United he joined up with Ascoli.

Despite the Serie A club avoiding relegation to Lega Pro last season the sporting director still left the Del Duca in June.