Leeds United star Ilia Gruev has found himself at the centre of a big scandal while away with Bulgaria.
The midfielder has been key for Daniel Farke’s side this season, but now he faces problems off the pitch that could spill back into his Leeds form.
From Elland Road to International Trouble
Gruev has been playing a big part in Leeds United’s return to the Premier League.
With Ethan Ampadu injured, the Bulgarian stepped back into the starting eleven and did his job well in midfield.
Fans at Elland Road know how important he can be when the team needs calm in the middle of the pitch.
But during the international break, things have gone badly wrong.
Gruev has been a regular for Bulgaria, but in their 3–0 defeat to Spain, emotions boiled over.
Reports from his homeland say he clashed not only with young Spanish talent Lamine Yamal on the pitch, but also with his own manager Ilian Iliev after the game.
footballleagueworld.co.uk
Benched After Heated Clash
The drama didn’t end there. For the next game against Georgia, Gruev was left on the bench, which raised eyebrows.
Bulgaria lost 3–0 again, and fans in the country are now questioning what is going on inside the camp.
Bulgarian media described the situation as a “serious scandal” that has shaken the national team.
It’s claimed Gruev was furious after the Spain defeat, shouting about the team’s poor performance and even aiming anger at his manager.
That reaction has now put his place in doubt moving forward.
What It Means for Leeds United
For Leeds fans, the big worry is simple, will this mess affect him when he comes back to West Yorkshire?
Daniel Farke already has injury problems in midfield, with Ampadu and others missing games.
Gruev looked set to play a big role in the coming weeks, but if his head is not in the right place, it could cause problems.
Leeds are entering a crucial part of the season, and Farke will need every player fully focused.
Gruev must leave this drama behind him, or it could affect his chances at Elland Road.
What Happens Next
Bulgaria still has World Cup qualifiers coming up against Turkey, Spain and Georgia.
If Gruev can fix his issues with the manager, he may get another chance.
But if the bust-up is not sorted, he could spend more time on the bench for his country.
As for Leeds, the hope is that he comes back ready to play, with his mind clear and his focus only on helping the Whites in the Premier League.
Leeds fans will watch closely. Gruev has the talent to shine, but only if he can move past this scandal and show his best again in white.
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