Leeds United cult hero Gaetano Berardi lands first coaching role after Marcelo Bielsa inspiraiton
Leeds United cult hero Gaetano Berardi’s first coaching role has been confirmed
Leeds United cult hero Gaetano Berardi has landed his first coaching role - over three years after hanging up his boots.
The 37-year-old’s name still rings out around Elland Road, such is his popularity in LS11. A former full-back, Berardi made 157 appearances for the Whites between 2014 and 2021.
Signed from Sampdoria during the turbulent Massimo Cellino era, he became a key figure under various managers and was part of the squad led to the Championship title by Marcelo Bielsa in 2020.
He left Leeds in 2021 and had spells back in his native Switzerland with Sion and Bellinzona, later retiring in May 2023 at the age of 34.
Leeds United cult hero Gaetano Berardi secures coaching role
Berardi has now moved into the word of coaching, joining third-tier Italian outfit Ospitaletto Franciacorta as the head coach of their under-17 and under-19 sides.
The club’s academy chief Andrea Cugola said: “I'm pleased that Gaetano has chosen to join us. He's a talented coach with a strong background as a player.
“We're confident he can give us a huge boost and do very well. We believe he's the right person to guide our young players' growth, not only technically but also personally.”
Berardi added: “I'm very excited and can't wait to begin this new adventure, a challenge I've decided to take on with great enthusiasm.
“From the very beginning, I sensed the club's ambition and, above all, their desire to grow and develop the players. I thank the club for their trust and for the opportunity they've given me.”
Marcelo Bielsa inspiration
Back in 2023, Berardi cited his former Leeds boss Bielsa as an influence behind his decision to pursue coaching.
He said: “Marcelo Bielsa was fundamental to my career. He was always attentive to details. Even if the day before he had played a good game, the day after he would only highlight the mistakes we had made and convince you that he had played a bad game.
“I made the decision to be a coach some time ago thanks to Bielsa, it was fundamental for this choice.”