Leeds United manager Daniel Farke bolstered his midfield this month by signing veteran player Josuha Guilavogui. The experienced midfielder will provide support for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Guilavogui is set to back up Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell, stepping in as needed for rest, suspensions, or injuries. This signing follows injuries to key players Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, prompting Leeds to look into the free-agent market.
The veteran officially joined the club after receiving EFL clearance, confirming his status as a Leeds United player. He arrived on a free transfer, with his contract reportedly valued at around £1 million and a weekly salary of £20,000, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2024-25 season.
Ampadu and Gruev play crucial roles in Daniel Farke’s plans, and their absence has created significant challenges for the team. Meanwhile, Guilavogui has been at Thorp Arch recently, focusing on his fitness and finalizing the details of his signing, which will mark his first chance to play in England.
Josuha Guilavogui reveals post-playing career plans
Daniel Farke also praised Josuha Guilavogui at the press conference (Credits: Imago Images)
Although Guilavogui will be with the Whites to ensure Farke has enough depth for the promotional push to the Premier League, the Frenchman already has plans for what he’ll do once he hangs up his boots.
Looking ahead, Guilavogui is already considering a coaching career once he wraps up his playing days after his time at Leeds United.
“I think that, and I am even sure of it, I will stay on the ground,” Guilavogui told RMC Sport (via Girondins 4 Ever) about his plans after this short-term Elland Road deal. “There may be agents, sports directors, truth is the green rectangle, that’s where I feel most at home comfortable.
“So why not start coaching young people or join a professional staff and also take care of the young people in the reserve who become professionals, to work a little more specifically after the sessions. But I am in the process of passing my CTP with UEFA, and there are quite a few doors that are open.”
Guilavogui was a free agent well into the 2024-25 season, so it makes sense that his age and understanding that not many clubs were calling that he already has a plan in place once his career is over.
