"Absolutely" – Player thrilled to have joined Leeds United and wants PL dream
03/21/2025 05:16 AM
Ilia Gruev joined Leeds United from Werder Bremen in 2023 and has made 54 appearances for them so far.
The defensive midfielder graduated from the German club’s academy and spent four years with their first team before joining Leeds.
Sport1 have spoken to the 24-year-old, and he believes the decision to join Leeds has “absolutely” paid off for hm. He also insists it was a “very good step”.
The Bulgaria international was then asked how moving to Elland Road has helped his development.
When responding to that, Gruev talked about his reaction after the Championship side made an offer for him.
“When I left Bremen, I left my comfort zone. After all, I was there for eight years and had a great time at Werder. It was a piece of home for me. Then came the offer from Leeds and I was immediately interested,” he said.
“Something is happening at the club. And football in England is very different to Germany. The Premier League is the best league in the world. I’m a lot closer to that with the move to Leeds. We’re doing very well at the moment and want to finally make the step up. I live just outside the city, and I can also feel the importance of the club there.”
Sport1 say it was a ‘brave step’ for the player to leave the German club for the Whites. He was asked whether his father, FC Ingolstadt assistant manager Ilia Gruev [they have same name], warned him about a move to England.
“I talk to him about everything, but it was my decision, and he also told me that he’s behind me, no matter what I decide. He didn’t warn me at all; in the end, he was happy with my decision,” Gruev explained.
The former Werder Bremen man’s contract with the English club lasts until 2027.
When Sport1 specifically asked whether he thinks about returning to the Bundesliga, he added: “Honestly? I don’t know. The goal now is clearly to get promoted with Leeds.”
“The Premier League would be an absolute dream for me. I want to play in the best league in the world. I find the Bundesliga very attractive, but for now, I want to continue proving myself in England.”
Daniel Farke’s side are currently leading the Championship table with 80 points, level on points with second placed Sheffield United and two behind third placed Burnley.
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