Shock return! Former Leeds United owner plotting emotional Elland Road comeback after secret talks with 49ers boss

Former Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani has revealed plans to return to Elland Road for the first time since selling the club, following a conversation with current chairman Paraag Marathe.

The Italian businessman sold his majority stake to 49ers Enterprises in 2023 after Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League — a downfall he had previously called “impossible.”

Marathe, who once served as Radrizzani’s vice-president, now leads the club’s ownership group.

Radrizzani, who oversaw Leeds’ long-awaited return to the Premier League in 2020, admits he has mixed emotions about his tenure and regrets some of his decisions.

He confessed that it has been too painful to visit Elland Road since his departure but now feels ready to return.

“I will come soon to watch a game. I miss it,” he told the Daily Mail, with reports suggesting his visit could coincide with Leeds’ home clash against West Ham United on Friday, October 24.

“I didn’t want to come in the Championship because it would hurt me — but now it’s time. I’m in touch with Paraag. It will be soon.”

Reflecting on his time in charge, Radrizzani admitted one of his biggest regrets was not replacing Jesse Marsch sooner during the relegation battle.

He revealed that Unai Emery, Julen Lopetegui, Arne Slot, and Andoni Iraola were all considered as potential replacements, though approaches to the latter two after the World Cup were unsuccessful.

Radrizzani also praised the current leadership’s direction, particularly their choice of Daniel Farke as manager. “He’s proving he was the right choice,” Radrizzani said.

“I’m happy with what they’ve achieved. The team is solid, well-organised, and doesn’t concede much. They just need a few more goals, but I’m positive.”