Pontus Jansson opens up on relationship with Marcelo Bielsa following Leeds United exit to Brentford

Swedish international centre-back Jansson sealed a quickfire transfer to the Bees on Monday night with Bielsa happy to move the centre-back on ahead of his second season in charge at Elland Road.

Jansson had been given extended leave before the start of pre-season training and not required back until the middle of the month.

After a breakdown in the relationship between the club and player, Bielsa was happy for the Swede to move on with the defender having been set to miss United’s pre-season tour of Australia and training with boyhood club Malmo in a bid to keep fit during his ongoing absence.

Both Leeds and Jansson wanted a quick resolution to the situation with Brentford swiftly becoming aware of the 28-year-old’s availability and successful with a bid of £5.5m plus add ons.

By Monday night, the defender had signed a three-year deal at Griffin Park with Jansson and Bielsa’s Leeds going their separate ways.

Speaking to Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, Jansson admitted there had been difficulties in his relationship with United’s head coach but the defender leaves knowing the talents, reputation and capabilities of Bielsa are not on doubt.

“I have always liked to have a close relationship with my coach,” said Jansson.

“Like the relationship I had with Roland Nilsson or Rikard Norling for example. That hasn’t been as easy with Bielsa and one reason for that is the language.

“I regard Bielsa very highly, as one of the absolute best coaches I have worked with. He is special, believes in his idea to the max and I have learned a lot from him.”