Marcelo Bielsa’s legacy at Leeds United continues to be felt long after his departure from Elland Road. Few managers have left such a lasting impression on both a club and its players, and Bielsa’s influence extends far beyond the footballing philosophy he instilled. His methods, his approach to player development, and even the cultural aspects he brought to his squads continue to shape the careers of those who worked under him. One of the clearest examples of this is Jack Harrison, a player who flourished under Bielsa at Leeds and has now carried that experience into his time at Everton, where he is helping to ease the transition for a new teammate, Carlos Alcaraz.

Harrison’s Leeds Journey and Bielsa’s Lasting Impact

Jack Harrison played a pivotal role in Leeds United’s rise under Bielsa, joining initially on loan from Manchester City in 2018. Over the course of four seasons, he became a key figure in Bielsa’s system, developing his game under the Argentine’s rigorous training and tactical discipline. Harrison played a major part in Leeds’ promotion-winning campaign in 2019-20, contributing to the club’s long-awaited return to the Premier League after 16 years outside the top flight.

During his time under Bielsa, Harrison not only improved technically and tactically but also embraced the cultural aspects of playing under an Argentine coach. Bielsa, known for his meticulous attention to detail, surrounded himself with a backroom staff that brought elements of South American football culture to Leeds. It was here that Harrison was first introduced to aspects of Argentine traditions, including maté, the herbal tea that is a staple among South American players.

After Bielsa’s departure in February 2022, Harrison remained at Leeds, continuing to play a key role under subsequent managers, including Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia. However, following Leeds’ relegation at the end of the 2022-23 season, he was loaned to Everton for the 2023-24 campaign. Despite an initial injury setback, Harrison settled in well at Goodison Park and impressed enough to secure another loan deal for the 2024-25 season under new manager David Moyes.

Helping Alcaraz Settle at Everton

Harrison’s experience under Bielsa has now come full circle, as he plays a mentor-like role for new Everton signing Carlos Alcaraz. The 22-year-old Argentine midfielder, who joined Everton on loan from Brazilian club Flamengo, has already made an impact on Merseyside. His winning goal against Crystal Palace on February 15 was a crucial moment, and in the aftermath of that game, Harrison was seen acting as Alcaraz’s translator in the post-match interview.

Speaking to The Times, Alcaraz highlighted how much Harrison has helped him settle in England. While many players might struggle with language barriers when moving to a new league, Alcaraz has benefited from Harrison’s fluent Spanish. But it’s not just about language—the bond between the two players goes deeper.

“Everyone has helped me, but the first person I came across because of his great Spanish was Jack,” Alcaraz explained. “We spend all the time together on and off the field and in training. We even share the odd maté together. I didn’t introduce him to it. When he was at Leeds, he played under [fellow Argentine Marcelo] Bielsa and the backroom staff there, so he was used to having maté. It is just that I have got him back on it now.”

This small but significant detail highlights just how much Bielsa’s presence is still being felt through his former players. Harrison’s openness to Argentine culture was developed during his time under Bielsa, and now, years later, it’s playing a role in helping a young South American player settle into life in England.

Bielsa’s Influence Beyond Leeds

Marcelo Bielsa’s impact on football is often measured in tactical terms—his high-pressing system, man-marking approach, and relentless demands for physical fitness. However, his influence extends far beyond tactics. Players who have worked under him frequently speak about the way he changes their mentality and approach to the game. Many, like Harrison, carry those lessons with them throughout their careers.

This is not the first time that Bielsa’s influence has manifested in unexpected ways. His former players, including Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford, have often credited him for their development, both on and off the pitch. Even those who never worked directly with him, like Carlos Alcaraz, can feel his impact through the players he coached.

At Everton, the Toffees will be hoping that Harrison and Alcaraz’s bond translates into performances on the pitch as they fight to maintain their Premier League status. Meanwhile, back at Leeds, Daniel Farke’s team is singularly focused on securing promotion back to the top flight. The Whites currently boast an impressive attacking lineup, with Dan James, Manor Solomon, and Joel Piroe leading the charge. While Harrison’s long-term future remains uncertain, Leeds’ loans manager, Andrew Taylor, will be keeping a close eye on his progress at Everton.

What’s Next for Harrison?

With Leeds pushing for promotion, the question remains whether Harrison will return to Elland Road next season. Farke has built a dynamic squad capable of challenging at the top of the Championship, and with the likes of Dan James excelling, competition for places will be fierce. If Leeds do return to the Premier League, will there be room for Harrison in their plans?

For now, his focus remains on Everton, where he has found himself playing an important role both on and off the pitch. His connection with Alcaraz is just one example of how his time at Leeds, and particularly his experience under Bielsa, continues to shape his career.

Regardless of what the future holds for Harrison, one thing is clear—Marcelo Bielsa’s legacy lives on, not just in the way Leeds United play, but in the players he coached and the lessons they pass on to others. Whether it’s in the pressing intensity of a team, the mental resilience of a player, or even in the simple act of sharing a cup of maté, Bielsa’s impact is felt in ways big and small.

His time at Leeds may have ended, but for those who played under him, the lessons he imparted continue to shape their journeys—on the pitch, in the dressing room, and even in the friendships they form along the way.