Marsch fires back at Allardyce over Leeds fitness claims

Jesse Marsch has responded forcefully to criticism from Sam Allardyce concerning the physical condition of Leeds United players during Marsch's management. Allardyce, who managed Leeds for the final four games of their relegation season in 2021-22, suggested that fitness levels had dropped significantly under his predecessors, Javi Gracia and Marsch.

Allardyce claimed that Leeds' fitness stats had fallen into the Premier League's bottom three, contrasting this with their previously high physical performance under Marcelo Bielsa. He believed this lack of fitness hampered their ability to compete effectively.

In his rebuttal, Marsch shared data via social media showing that Leeds United led the league in several physical categories during his tenure. These included kilometers covered, meters covered, high-speed sprints, and high-speed runs. Marsch also engaged with fans online, defending his record.

Marsch's Leeds team ultimately survived on the final day of the 2020-21 season, a feat he highlighted in his defense. Allardyce has not managed another team since Leeds' relegation, while Marsch is now the coach for Canada's national team.