Mirco Antenucci comments on Leeds spell, desperate for promotion

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Mirco Antenucci has told Forza Italian Football that he left Leeds United because he was not offered a new contract by the Yorkshire club – but still wants his former side to gain promotion to the Premier League.

Now 34 years of age, Antenucci spent two years at Elland Road between 2014 and 2016. He was one of Massimo Cellino’s signings, scoring 19 goals in 80 appearances for the Whites.

Slightly controversial, Antenucci was known for his passionate, Paolo Di Canio-like displays and is held in high regard by Leeds fans. He was a rare example of a Cellino signing that proved to be a success.

Now captain of Serie A side SPAL, after joining them from Leeds in 2016, Antenucci commented on his time at Leeds, the Elland Road support and his hope to see the Whites gain promotion to the top flight.

“I had a great time in England,” Antenucci said. “I didn’t stay because I wasn’t offered a new contract. I had some offers from another two clubs in England, but decided I wanted to come back to Italy.

“But I must say that with them, the people of Leeds, I left on great terms. I hold them in great esteem, and I’m sure they do the same with me. I got to play for a very prestigious club, and I am happy and proud to have done so.

“I am proud to have been part of that club. I support SPAL, but also Leeds. They’re having a great season and I hope their dreams can come true.”

TBR’s view

What a player Antenucci could be for Leeds under Bielsa. Since moving to SPAL, Antenucci has shone in Serie A. 18 goals in his first season helped SPAL gain promotion, but it was 2017-18 where he shone.

He defied the doubters to shine in the top flight, donning the captain’s armband. He scored 11 goals and created five more in 33 Serie A appearances. This season, he has gone off the boil slightly.

But under Bielsa, surely Antenucci would have been given license to exert his flair and passion. He could have been a shining light for the Whites – but perhaps his time at Elland Road came too soon.