As we gaze longingly towards the new Premier League season, plenty of Leeds fans are excited for the next rollercoaster ride under Marcelo Bielsa.
After defying the odds last season to claim a top half finish and with big signings on their way, many are tipping the Whites to earn themselves European football next year. But just as important as any new faces are those who starred last season for the West Yorkshire giants. The likes of Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford again need to have good years as does Rodrigo.
The Spaniard had a stop-start beginning to life at Elland Road. When he played, he was spectacular and proved he has the skill and smarts to rip teams apart. He’ll need to do that on a more regular basis next term which will require greater fitness and less injuries.
In many ways, he could be Leeds’ secret weapon next season. After a low-key first campaign, many opponents could underestimate him allowing the versatile forward to cause havoc.
That appears to be the view of former Leeds striker Noel Whelan. The now commentator identified Rodrigo as a key man but insisted he needs a good pre-season to ensure fitness and potency ahead of the new campaign.
He told Football Insider: “Rodrigo is a very important part of this team. He is a bit older than some of the players there. When you are older it is vital that you get through pre-season to make sure you are at the top of your game. You need to get your fitness levels right, especially when you play in Marcelo Bielsa side which is very fitness-based.
“It was a bit stop and start for him last season. I think being in Spain’s training camp ahead of the Euros will have done him the world of good as will the way he finished last season.
“Sometimes it takes players a season to feel bedded in. It must’ve been difficult moving to another country last year. You only feel happy when you are playing football and he spent a lot of time on the side lines.
“The whole club hope he can have a strong pre-season and then hit the ground running against Manchester United. He showed how important he is. He also brings so much experience to the side.”
It’ll be interesting to see whether he starts against Manchester United and, if so, where?
