Josuha Guilavogui still has Leeds on his mind despite leaving Yorkshire back in July when his contract expired.
The man born in Ollioules only made 18 appearances in total for the Whites, but departed Elland Road as a firm favourite among the Leeds squad – with almost every player responding to his farewell message on Instagram.
Josuha Guilavogui has now spoken to Canal+ about his time at Leeds and what he plans to do next.
Josuha Guilavogui reiterates love for Leeds United and says he has not retired
Despite turning 35 last month, the Frenchman has no intention of hanging up his boots just yet.
Guilavogui said: “I had quite a few opportunities this summer, but I haven’t found the right challenge yet. I’m keeping myself fit, waiting for something to happen. I’m not retired yet, no. That’s already good, my career is a waking dream, we’ll see if there’s a sequel or not.”
He does – however – sound ready to step into coaching if no further playing opportunities arise.
Josuha Guilavogui in action for Leeds
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Leeds fan favourite added: “I got my diploma with UEFA, the CFM (Certificate in Football Management). It’s strange to go back to school, to pick up a pencil and write notes, but it’s something I also enjoy. In the coming months, we will search and find the right path.”
If this is the end for Guilavogui in terms of his playing career, he seems more than satisfied to call it a day by winning the Championship with Leeds last season.
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Discussing the moment when Manor Solomon won the title in the final seconds at Plymouth last term, he said: “I’m very happy with my last season at Leeds, where we were able to achieve something historic by winning the championship at the last minute.
“We know that Leeds is a historic club that normally plays in the Premier League, but which has struggled for the past two years to get back into the game. I’m still living on cloud nine.”
Leeds could make a wise move by hiring Josuha Guilavogui
Premier League survival is the first port of call for Leeds at the moment beyond any additions to the backroom staff, but the popularity of Guilavogui – who was delighted by the win over West Ham – must be considered now he has a UEFA CFM.
Whether it is an ambassadorial role or a position on Farke’s coaching team, something could surely be made of the connection between Leeds and the Frenchman – who can boast a wealth of experience with 437 career appearances and also seven caps for France.
Guilavogui sounds like he wants to continue playing primarily, but if nothing arises, Leeds should consider getting back in touch.