Leeds United MUST Sell This Overrated Player if Promotion is a Thing of UTMOST Importance to the Club orelse….

Leeds United Must Consider Selling Illan Meslier Amid Goalkeeping Concerns

Leeds United’s Illan Meslier has been a subject of concern for the club, with the French goalkeeper’s performances raising questions about his long-term viability at Elland Road. Despite initial promise, Meslier has failed to live up to expectations, and the 49ers may need to consider selling him in the near future.

Meslier’s emergence under Marcelo Bielsa in the 2019/20 season was met with excitement, as he kept seven clean sheets in ten Championship appearances while on loan from Lorient. Leeds subsequently signed him on a permanent deal, reportedly worth £5 million. However, Meslier’s form has been inconsistent, and he has struggled to establish himself as a reliable shot-stopper.

Journalist Barry Collins described Meslier as a “liability” in the 2022/23 campaign, citing his tendency to concede goals. Statistics from Sofascore reveal that Meslier let in 12.4 more goals than expected based on the post-shot xG faced in the Premier League. This season, his save percentage in the Championship stands at 67%, a mediocre return for a goalkeeper of his experience.

Meslier’s error-prone displays have been a concern for Leeds, and the club may need to reassess their goalkeeping options. With the January transfer window approaching, the 49ers may consider selling Meslier to make way for a more reliable shot-stopper. His underwhelming performances have done little to justify his continued presence in the starting lineup.

In 2022, Jonny Buchan, Adam Pope, and Simon Rix discussed Meslier’s potential on the Leeds podcast Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet. Buchan boldly predicted that Meslier would become one of the great goalkeepers, earning a place as France’s number one. However, two years on, Meslier’s career trajectory has not aligned with these lofty expectations.

As Leeds strive to regain their Premier League status, they require a goalkeeper who can provide stability and consistency. Meslier’s inconsistent form has raised doubts about his ability to fulfill this role. The 49ers may need to consider selling him to bring in a more reliable shot-stopper, one who can help the team achieve their promotion ambitions.