Few knew what to expect when Massimo Cellino took control of Leeds United in April 2014 and what followed was nothing short of chaos. In just over three years as majority shareholder, the Italian burned through countless managers, caused more than his fair share of controversy and oversaw an incredibly hit-and-miss transfer strategy.
That strategy took no time coming into play at Leeds, with Cellino’s first summer in charge a busy one of leftfield signings. Some paid off and went on to enjoy great careers in West Yorkshire, while others did not. Some barely enjoyed a career at Elland Road whatsoever.
All in all, Cellino made 17 first-team signings during his first campaign in charge, both in the summer and January windows. Below, the YEP takes a look at where those players ended up.
13. Casper Sloth
Represented the club between 2014 and 2016 but has since struggled. A return to Denmark yielded 50-or-so appearances over a three-year period but spells with Motherwell, Notts County, Helsingor and Icelandic side Stjarnan have been less than fruitful. Sloth has been out of the game since 2022. Photo: IAN MACNICOL
14. Giuseppe Bellusci
Played more games than most on this list, but many of his 61 appearances were chaotic, not least a debut where he conceded a penalty and was sent off in a 4-1 defeat against Watford. Was booed by fans and argued with some during a pre-season friendly before his contract was ripped up in July 2017. Returned to Italy with Palermo, Monza, Ascoli and fourth-tier Recanatese where he still plays, aged 35. | Getty Images
15. Edgar Cani
Joined on loan from Catania in the January window but failed to score and played just four games. Was part of the 'sicknote six' before his loan ended the following summer. Has fallen down the leagues back in Italy and is currently playing for fourth-tier United Riccione. | jpimedia
16. Granddi N'Goyi
Joined on loan in January but didn't make a debut until April due to injury. That would prove his only appearance for the Whites before moves to Dijon and Senart-Moissy in France, where he retired from playing in 2018. | Getty Images
17. Sol Bamba
Was almost seen as an add-on to N'Goyi's arrival initially but went on to much greater things, playing regularly over an 18-month spell. Was a rare shining light and a real leader during difficult times under Cellino. Left for Cardiff City in 2016 and went on to play for Middlesbrough too. Beat non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 but tragically passed away in August last year after falling ill during an Adanaspor game, where he worked as technical director. | Getty Images