Leeds appoint former Man Utd flop coach Chris Armas as assistant manager – and refuse to ackowledge he worked for rivals
LEEDS appointed former Manchester United coach Chris Armas as their assistant manager – and refused to name their hated rivals.
The American previously worked under Whites boss Jesse Marsch at New York Red Bulls and his move to Elland Road is subject to a work permit.
He was appointed coach at United last season under Ralf Rangnick, but his spell at Old Trafford was one to forget.
And Leeds barely acknowledged it, writing in a statement: “Leeds United are pleased to confirm the appointment of Chris Armas as our new assistant head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit.
“Last season, Armas spent time as an assistant at another Premier League club, working under Ralf Rangnick.”
It was reported that Rangnick left many of his coaching sessions to assistant Armas.
And Armas’ methods led to grumbles among players, with reports claiming some of the squad believed his and Rangnick’s ways are ‘old fashioned’.
And the ribbing didn’t stop there.
It was also reported some players have jokingly likened Armas to TV comedy character Ted Lasso.
Lasso is a hapless football coach from America, played by Jason Sudeikis, appointed at fictional team AFC Richmond in the self titled show on Apple TV+.
Sir Alex Ferguson is also believed to have been critical of Armas, who won 66 caps for the USA.
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The coach was sent to seek advice from the 13-time Premier League-winning manager following a shock 1-1 draw with Young Boys in the Champions League.
During the exchange, it is claimed Armas proudly reeled off his CV to the legendary Scot, including stints at Toronto FC and managing the New York Red Bulls.
In reply, the report states Ferguson grinned and simply said, “You’ll need more than that here, son”, in a withering put-down.
Armas, 50, played in MLS for several years before starting his coaching career at Chicago Fire.