No plans to replace key Leeds United figure set for Elland Road exit | OneFootball

Gretar Steinsson is set to leave Leeds United for a role further up the 49ers Enterprises hierarchy.

Leeds United have no plans to replace Gretar Steinsson in the Leeds United hierarchy, with the Technical Director set to depart for a role in 49ers Enterprises global operation.

He is one of a number of important figures within the Leeds backroom and recruitment team, playing a vital role in reshaping the club’s football operations. Since arriving as Technical Director, the former Bolton Wanderers defender has helped streamline the recruitment process, ensuring Leeds are well-prepared for the challenges of the Championship.

Steinsson’s ability to identify talent and his strong European contacts have proven crucial, especially after the club's relegation from the Premier League, with The Athletic's Nancy Froston outlining the latest regarding the former Spurs director and his forthcoming exit:

Gretar Steinsson set for Leeds United exit

Froston has all the details regarding Steinsson. Speaking via The Athletic, she wrote: "Steinsson, who joined the Championship side after leaving Tottenham Hotspur as performance director in July 2023, will not be replaced at Leeds.

"The decision not to replace Steinsson comes as the 49ers feel Leeds have an effective senior team in place including Hammond, Underwood, manager Daniel Farke, CEO Angus Kinnear and head of football administration Hannah Cox.

"While there are no imminent plans for a multi-club model under the 49ers umbrella, it is not something that is off the table for the group."

Steinsson joined the club as part of a restructure of their football operations team in the same month as the 49ers takeover from Andrea Radrizzani was completed. Hammond, who served as an interim football advisor, also played an important part in the club’s transfer dealings over the last few summer windows.

His experience was critical in helping Leeds transition during a turbulent period, supporting Steinsson with his wealth of knowledge. Adam Underwood remains as head of football operations, and he is expected to play a part going forwards as well.

Meanwhile, Leeds President, Paraag Marathe, continues to oversee the strategic direction of the club. Marathe's leadership off the pitch has been instrumental in stabilising Leeds after relegation, and his focus on long-term planning aligns with the football vision of the likes of Steinsson and Hammond.

Together, the behind the scenes drive at Elland Road has helped restore a sense of direction, laying the foundation for a potential promotion push while maintaining a sustainable model for the future. The collective effort is starting to bear fruit in a fiercely competitive Championship campaign.

Jordan Miles is another important figure within that, and whilst it is a blow to lose Steinsson, the framework is in place for Leeds' longer-term success now going forward. The multi-club model idea is perhaps the most interesting takeaway from the latest news, which will excite some Leeds fans but perhaps concern some others.

Either way, behind the scenes, Leeds appear to be stable and able to operate at a much more coherent level and as a collective. That bodes well for this season and heading into January, which could be a pivotal transfer window for the club in their long and short-term success.