Josuha Guilavogui playing agent as a Leeds United shirt is sent to German star, he’d be an incredible signing

Leeds United Feel the Absence of Josuha Guilavogui, Who Now Plays a New Role Off the Pitch

Leeds United supporters are already beginning to feel the absence of Josuha Guilavogui—not just on the field, but more notably in the dressing room, where his leadership and personality left a lasting impression. It’s not just the fans who will miss him either; many within the squad have reportedly felt his departure just as keenly.

Although Guilavogui’s performances on the pitch were relatively modest, his influence off it was nothing short of transformative. Signed on a free transfer, the veteran Frenchman quickly became a cornerstone of the club’s morale and unity. Despite limited game time, his presence was arguably one of Leeds’ most valuable pieces of business last season—proof that not all impacts are measured in minutes played or goals scored.

Aged 34, Guilavogui was never expected to dominate games in the Championship, but his professionalism, mentorship, and off-field camaraderie made him a beloved figure. Younger players like Wilfried Gnonto often leaned on his experience, with the French midfielder offering guidance and setting an example that extended far beyond matchdays. His contributions to team spirit and player development were widely appreciated within Thorp Arch.

Ultimately, however, the time came for Guilavogui to part ways with the club. Despite his undeniable influence behind the scenes, he managed just 18 appearances during his stint with Leeds, the majority of which came from the bench. In total, he only logged 216 minutes in a Whites shirt—statistics that reflect a limited role on the field. Nevertheless, he holds a unique record: Leeds won all of the first eight matches in which he featured, a streak previously unheard of at the club.

Now, even as he embarks on a new chapter in his career, Guilavogui appears to still be lending a hand to the Leeds project—this time, from afar and in a very different capacity. In a surprising twist, the former Wolfsburg man has taken on something of an unofficial recruitment role. Recently, he was seen on Instagram sending a Leeds United shirt to Wolfsburg midfielder Yannick Gerhardt, hinting at a potential connection or recommendation.

Gerhardt, 31, is a seasoned Bundesliga professional and, while not a flashy or headline-grabbing name, he possesses the kind of experience, versatility, and tactical discipline that would make him an ideal addition to Daniel Farke’s squad. Although there are currently no confirmed reports linking Leeds to a formal pursuit of the midfielder, Guilavogui’s subtle endorsement could be a sign of things to come.

Farke, who is well acquainted with German football from his time at Borussia Mönchengladbach and Norwich, would certainly be familiar with Gerhardt’s qualities. Known for his reliability, work rate, and football intelligence, the midfielder has long been a dependable figure at Wolfsburg, where he has spent nearly a decade.

Wolfsburg managing director Marcel Schäfer has publicly praised Gerhardt’s character and contributions to the club, stating in March 2024:

> “Yannick is not only synonymous with passion and reliability on the pitch, he also embodies the club’s values off the pitch in an impressive way and fully identifies with our path.”

Gerhardt’s numbers from the 2022/23 season speak for themselves:

Appearances: 29

Goals/Assists: 6 goals and 4 assists (10 contributions)

Touches in the opposition box: 55

Duels won per 90: 3.66

Aerial duels won: 22

These stats underline his effectiveness both defensively and going forward, and his ability to play a box-to-box role would be an asset in Farke’s system. Moreover, Gerhardt would already have familiar faces in the Leeds dressing room—most notably Sebastiaan Bornauw, who recently joined the club from Wolfsburg. Bornauw’s move was also reportedly endorsed by Guilavogui, which adds another layer to the growing German influence in the squad.

While nothing official has emerged regarding Leeds’ interest in Gerhardt, the signs are certainly intriguing. Guilavogui, even after his departure, seems intent on contributing to Leeds United’s future—this time as an informal ambassador and behind-the-scenes connector.

As Leeds United continue to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion, the foundations laid by figures like Guilavogui could prove to be just as important as any marquee signing. His legacy at Elland Road may be short in appearances but long-lasting in influence.