Josuha Guilavogui’s time at Leeds United was short but sweet, winning the adoration of fans as the Frenchman played an important role in the club’s eventual promotion last season.
Joining Leeds in October 2024 after injuries to Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu, the seven-time France star had been a free agent beforehand. He would go on to play 18 times in all competitions for the Whites.
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Indeed, Guilavogui broke Vinnie Jones’ 1989 Leeds record of going unbeaten in his first 15 games for the club. While he didn’t start a league game, Guilavogui played a key role both as a sub, and off the pitch.
However, after securing the Championship title, Guilavogui would leave Leeds. The midfielder is yet to find himself a new club but Guilavogui has taken his first leap into a different line of work; management.
Photo by Harry Trump/Getty ImagesJoshua Guilavogui secures management degree after Leeds exit
Guilavogui has not officially retired but at 35 and having been out of the game now for more than half a year, it is clear that Guilavogui is considering pastures new. On Tuesday evening, he posted on Instagram.
He confirmed in a long-winded post that he had graduated with a UEFA degree in football management from the University of Lausanne. The former Leeds star hinted at becoming a manager in due course.
“I am deeply in love with soccer. With time, I might like what’s around more: management, transmission, human management, collective vision. All topics discussed during this period as intense and demanding.
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“It has only strengthened my conviction about my career after. Thanks to the clubs and all people who supported me on this new project. The rest is being written, step by step,” Guilavogui posted on socials.
Illan Meslier, Guilavogui’s fellow countryman, was among those to reply to his post on Instagram with a couple of clapping emojis. Clearly, the Leeds squad loved Guilavogui and remains very well-liked.
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Wolfsburg linked with emotional return for Josuha Guilavogui
While he has now been without a club for a while and is in his mid-thirties, Guilavogui remains a player of interest despite his post-career qualifications. Wolfsburg have been linked with an emotional transfer.
Guilavogui of course, spent a large part of his career with the German club. Lukas Nmecha and Sebastiaan Bornauw joined Leeds from Wolfsburg for a combined fee of £5m in the summer transfer window.
It is unclear if Guilavogui would prefer to join a new club and continue to add games to his CV, or hang up his boots. At least, whether it be Wolfsburg or management, at least Guilavogui is well prepared.
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