Skip to content

Leeds United confirm Thomas Christiansen as new head coach

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

SSNHQ reporter Tim Thornton revealed earlier on Thursday that Leeds have made Thomas Christiansen their new head coach

Leeds United have appointed former Spain international Thomas Christiansen as their new head coach, the club have confirmed.

The 44-year-old had been managing in Cyprus with Apoel Nicosia, but he has left his post with them to make the move to Elland Road.

Who is Thomas Christiansen?
Who is Thomas Christiansen?

Check out our profile of the new Leeds United head coach...

Sky sources reported the news earlier on Thursday, and the club have now confirmed his appointment via a statement.

"We are delighted to make this announcement today as it successfully concludes what has been a thorough and extensive search, following a huge level of interest from all over the football world," said Leeds United Managing Director Angus Kinnear.

"We wanted to appoint someone who can help us create a winning culture at the club and unite everyone connected with Leeds United, from the players to the supporters, ultimately taking the club back to where we all feel we belong.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: Leeds United corner flag before the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday at Elland Road on
Image: Leeds United have confirmed the appointment via a club statement

"Thomas was someone who had been on our radar from the very early stages of the process and quickly established himself as the outstanding candidate.

"We are confident we have found a man with who can work with us to take the club to the next level."

Also See:

Christiansen had not been mentioned as a name in the frame for the role in any media and his appointment comes very much from left field.

He was born in Denmark to a Spanish mother and spent most of his playing career as a striker in Spain, featuring twice for the Spain national team.

His only previous managerial experience comes in the Cypriot league, as he managed AEK Larnaca between 2014 and 2016, before taking charge at Apoel Nicosia last season.

Garry Monk during the Sky Bet Championship match against Newcastle United at St James' Park
Image: Christiansen comes in as a replacement for departed manager Garry Monk

Christiansen also spent a short time as assistant manager at Abu Dhabi-based club Al Jazira in the United Arab Emirates in 2013, under Luis Milla.

Christiansen arrives at Leeds as a replacement for new Middlesbrough boss Garry Monk, who resigned in May just two days after Andrea Radrizzani completed his takeover of the club from Massimo Cellino.

Around Sky