Javi Gracia is set to be appointed as the new Leeds United manager, according to reports, bringing the search for a replacement to a close after just over a fortnight.
As per the BBC, the former Watford boss is soon to be named as Jesse Marsch's successor after the American coach was sacked on 6 February.
The Spaniard has previously coached in the Premier League as well as in Spain, Greece, Russia and most recently in the Middle East, but was sacked by Qatari club Al Sadd SC back in June 2022.
Now, though, it looks like the 52-year-old — who boasts just 18 wins in his 56 matches in the English top-flight — will be trusted to shepherd the Whites to safety.
Despite it being stated that under-21 boss Michael Skubala would take interim charge for the remainder of the season, club owner Andrea Radrizzani did insist upon a quick appointment with the club currently sat in the relegation places.
It still remains unconfirmed as to whether or not Gracia will be brought into the club immediately or at the start of next season, but with Leeds languishing in the drop zone (19th on the same amount of points), an immediate move seems crucial.
With an average of 1.18 points per game before he was sacked by Watford in September 2019, he guided the Hornets to an 11th-place finish and their first FA Cup final in 35 years in the 2018/19 season.
Will he be the right man to keep them in the Prem?
Kick-off for the 2026 World Cup is almost upon us so it's time to find out in Leeds where we'll be watching, preferably with a pint in hand.
International tournaments are always a special occasion we eagerly await to come around and while we’re sure you could walk into any old pub and enjoy yourself, there are some seriously good venues showing the 2026 World Cup this year.
So, with that in mind, we thought we’d put together a list of the best places to watch the World Cup in Leeds. You’re welcome.
Get yourself on one of Leeds' best terraces to enjoy a spritz or two before heading into the main bar to watch the matches.
Meanwood Tavern
607 Meanwood Rd, Meanwood, LS6 4HQ
Over in Meanwood, the much-loved Meanwood Tavern will be showing the games with screens at the front and back of the pub. Walk-ins welcome but booking encouraged.
BOX
15 Infirmary St, LS1 2JS
Image: The Hoot Leeds
It's an absolute classic, but BOX will of course be showing all the games on their multitude of screens. We also recommend booking a table for this spot as it's always a busy one.
Hyde Park Book Club
27-29 Headingley Ln., Headingley, LS6 1BL
Image: The Hoot Leeds
A favourite amongst students, Hyde Park Book Club will be showing every England game and more on the big screen.
Trinity Kitchen
27 Albion St, LS1 5ER
Image: Supplied
Trinity Kitchen will turn into one of the city’s biggest hotspots to watch the World Cup this summer.
The space is getting ready to be transformed into an evening fan zone with three super-size screens, a brand-new bar, DJs, brass bands and space for up to 1,000 supporters.
The space will be completely free to attend and will open just in time for the start of the tournament on Thursday 11 June.
This fantastic events venue will be showing all the England World Cup Games, so get your tables booked and make sure to head for some food at Galleria beforehand.
Brewery Wharf Tavern
Tetley's Brewery Wharf, 3 Brewery Pl, LS10 1NE
Image: The Hoot Leeds
One of Leeds' newest pubs right by the canal will be showing all the England games, booking is recommended.
The Melbourne
476 Roundhay Rd, Roundhay, LS8 2HU
Image: The Hoot Leeds
If you're in Roundhay then The Melbourne is the place to be. They'll be showing all the England games on their swanky new 75inch telly and they'll even have some new beers on the lines to celebrate the occasion.
This absolute gem of a pub will be showing all the England World Cup games on multiple screens, including some big ones. If you're a fan of a huge beer garden, then this is the spot for you.
This fabulous pub on the edge of the River Aire will be showing the footy on a huge screen in their expansive beer garden. If that doesn't scream summer, we don't know what does.
Brudenell Social Club
33 Queen's Rd, Burley, LS6 1NY
Image: The Hoot Leeds
One of Leeds' most iconic gig venues will be showing the footy both outdoor and indoor, they'll also of course be providing plenty of pints, pies and good vibes.
Brotherhood
54 New Briggate, LS1 6NU
Image: The Hoot Leeds
One of Leeds' most iconic sports bars will be showing every single match of the World Cup alongside plenty of drink deals and food on offer to keep you fuelled up.
If you're looking for a proper fan zone atmosphere, than Beaverworks is your best bet. For £5 a ticket, expect BBQs at each game, beer towers, DJs and a free beer or cider.
4TheFans at the O2 Academy
55 Cookridge St, Leeds LS2 3AW
Image: 4TheFans
4TheFans will be creating the ultimate atmosphere at the O2 Academy, expect a production and sound experience built for global superstars, combining the noise, the passion and the atmosphere into one electric, next-level fan experience.
Work on Elland Road has officially begun as Leeds United issue statement
Clementine Hall
The time has finally come for major work to begin on transforming Elland Road.
A statement issued by the club confirms that work has already begun, including the demolition of the old ticket office and LUTV studio, alongside the partial removal of the banqueting suite behind the West Stand.
The statement reads: "The enhancement of Leeds United’s iconic Elland Road Stadium is officially under way!
"Our home, our future and a momentous moment in the club’s 106-year existence, work has now begun on the West Stand starting with the removal of the Banqueting Suite, shaping the future of Elland Road.
"Executives from Leeds United, the Leeds United Foundation and Leeds City Council, along with Club Ambassadors Stuart Dallas, Tony Dorigo and Eddie Gray were all in attendance to mark the occasion.
"The new West Stand, which will be built over the top of the existing structure, is the first phase of transforming Elland Road into a UEFA Category 4 stadium, placing it among the elite venues in European football.
"Increasing the capacity of the stadium is vital for the future, with the club having a now strong 32,000 Season Ticket waiting listIt will also allow Leeds United, alongside civic partners, to bid to host major international tournaments and showcase events in the future, generating significant cultural and economic value for the Leeds City Region."
The statement continues: "Carefully designed to enhance the matchday experience whilst protecting Elland Road’s famous atmosphere, supporters can look forward to:
Improved seating comfort and sightlines throughout the expanded West Stand
Enhanced concourses and fan amenity spaces both inside and around the stadium
A more inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors
World-class hospitality facilities
"For players, the enhanced stadium environment will provide a stage befitting elite-level football, strengthening the club’s ability to compete at the highest level and attract top talent."
Danny Jones -
21st February 2023 
