Italy international Wilfried Gnonto provided an assist in the opening minutes for Leeds United, but looked unhappy to be substituted – and many fans of the club were positively furious at the decision.
The versatile 19-year-old started the match against Wolves on the left wing and almost immediately got past Nelson Semedo to pull back for Jack Harrison.
However, after a strong performance that earned praise from supporters online, Gnonto was substituted on the hour mark.
The Azzurri talent seemed visibly irritated by the decision from coach Javi Gracia, but that was nothing compared to the reaction from the Leeds fans on social media.
Leeds were 2-0 up at the time, added a third, but then conceded twice in quick succession for a tense finale.
“Why substitute Gnonto who was doing loads of defending and leave Aaronson on?” asked one fan.
“Went wrong after taking Gnonto off… joke management,” added another.
“Last week we were rubbish until Gnonto came on. This week we have gone to pot as soon as Gnonto went off.”
Considering the former Inter youth product is still only 19 years old, he is already considered one of the top players at Leeds United and not just for his talents.
“This is why I don’t think taking Gnonto off was a good idea. He’s calm, composed and would either be making them think twice about committing so many forward, or having an absolute field day with the space they’re leaving,” noted one fan.
The game eventually ended 4-2 for Leeds.
So far this season, Gnonto has made 19 official appearances for Leeds United, contributing four goals and three assists.
He already has eight senior Italy caps and is in Roberto Mancini’s squad for the upcoming EURO 2024 qualifiers against England and Malta.