Since joining Leeds, Ilia Gruev has observed a significant contrast between English and German fans.
Since joining Leeds United, Ilia Gruev claims to have observed one significant distinction between English and German supporters.
On the penultimate day of the summer transfer window, Gruev moved to Elland Road, and in his first few months there, he undoubtedly had to wait for opportunities.
The 23-year-old, who freely acknowledged that his lack of playing time made life in a new nation difficult, has undoubtedly gained attention since the start of the New Year.
Since Ethan Ampadu had to fill in at center back for Pascal Struijk due to injury, he has started 11 of Leeds’ last 12 league games and has really begun to shine in that capacity.
Everyone can see how effective Gruev has been in that capacity, and it’s no accident that Leeds has only allowed three goals in 2024 when he’s covering that back four.
In a recent interview with Leeds Live, Gruev discussed the gratitude he has gotten from the team’s supporters and expressed his belief that England values his position considerably more than Germany does.
Gruev discusses the notable distinctions he has observed between German and English supporters at Leeds
“I would say that right now, Rodri is the best holding six,” he stated. He’s great in my opinion, and although it seems so simple to watch, what he’s doing is really rather challenging.
“I am aware of this in this position because, although everyone applauds a well-executed pass, if the ball is lost there, the opposition almost always has a great opportunity to score.
“I know that things weren’t like this in Germany, so I really appreciate that people in the UK are recognizing this position. Here, it’s because the spectators are having a great time watching the game, and it’s nice to see that they value this location.
Gruev recounts what Farke said to him during difficult times.
In his first four months as a Leeds player, Gruev only started two league games, therefore it’s safe to assume that he wasn’t able to perform at his peak.
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However, he wasn’t the only player to experience anything similar this season; Willy Gnonto, Patrick Bamford, and Junior Firpo also followed a similar course.
In a recent interview, Gruev revealed exactly what Farke told him each week to stay prepared and motivated during difficult times.
“Continue like this, train hard like this and sooner or later there will be a chance and then you have to use it,” he remarked, referring to his conversation with the boss during the first half of the season. That was his statement. I believe I completed my task.
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ELIA GRUEV, CHAMPIONSHIP DANIEL FARKE
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