Leeds United ready for '˜next level', says Radrizzani after completing takeover

ANDREA Radrizzani last night completed a full takeover of Leeds United, ending Massimo Cellino's turbulent reign at the club.
Andrea Radrizzani.Andrea Radrizzani.
Andrea Radrizzani.

The Italian businessman, a sports TV rights entrepreneur, bought a 50 per cent stake last January with a view to taking full charge in the summer.

He has now exercised that right, after three weeks of talks had gone into striking a deal with Cellino.

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“I am delighted to have the opportunity to become a custodian of this great football club,” said Radrizzani, who has become chairman.

“The heritage and history of Leeds United attracted me to the club and having spent time at games and at Thorp Arch, I can see that we are ready to move forward to the next level.

“This is a long-term commitment, there is a lot of hard work ahead of us and I am aware of my responsibilities as owner of Leeds United.

“I can assure all supporters that everyone at this club will be doing all we can to build a successful team at Elland Road.”

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Radrizzani’s buyout brought to an end Cellino’s time at Leeds, the Italian having bought a 75 per cent stake back in April, 2014, from Gulf Finance House.

His time in the West Riding has been marred by conflict and controversy, including three separate bans from football’s governing bodies.

Cellino sacked six managers before Garry Monk’s arrival last June, while he had been urged to sell by supporters who had grown weary of the off-field controversies befalling the club.

Cellino said: “I wish Andrea good luck, I am sure he will continue what I have started and show that people from our country are honest and hard working people.

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“Owners come and go but Leeds United will be there forever, for the fans. Keep Marching on Together.”

The completion of Radrizzani’s takeover will allow him to push on with major changes, including additions to the senior management team at Elland Road.

West Ham United managing director Angus Kinnear is expected to join in the coming days following confirmation last week that current chief executive Ben Mansford will leave United on May 31.

Garry Monk’s future has head coach also has to be secured, while United are looking to appoint a technical director to oversee football operations. Radrizzani appointed former Real Madrid director of strategy Ivan Bravo to the board in April.

Farewell, Massimo: Page 26