“Awful Performance”-Leeds Weakest Player Proves himself to be Farke’s headache ONCE again as his Performance against Portsmouth is DISTURBING

Leeds United’s 2024/25 season got off to a frustrating start with a 3-3 draw against Portsmouth at Elland Road. Despite dominating the match, the Whites were forced to settle for a point due to a combination of missed chances and defensive errors. However, one player’s performance stood out for all the wrong reasons – Illan Meslier.

The French goalkeeper has been a topic of discussion among Leeds fans for some time, and his display against Portsmouth did little to alleviate concerns. Meslier’s mistake for the opening goal set the tone for a disappointing afternoon, and his inability to make crucial saves throughout the match only added to the frustration.

Statistically, Meslier was one of the worst shot-stoppers in the Championship last season, and this game did nothing to improve that reputation. He allowed three goals from an expected goals (xG) of just 0.89, with the majority of that coming from a penalty. This is a worrying trend for Leeds United, who need a reliable goalkeeper to challenge for promotion.

The team’s dominance and creation of chances were positives, but the concession of three goals is a major concern. Pascal Struijk’s opener was canceled out by Elias Sorensen and Callum Lang’s goals, before Wilfried Gnonto equalized after the break. Lang thought he had won it in stoppage time, but Brenden Aaronson’s late equalizer salvaged a point for Leeds.

However, the drama did not stop there, as Aaronson missed a golden opportunity to win it moments later. This was a game that Leeds should have won comfortably, but Meslier’s errors and the team’s inability to finish chances off cost them dearly.

It was clear to many following the end of last season that goalkeeper was a position that needed upgrading, yet Daniel Farke seems to have ignored that. Meslier’s shaky end to the 2023/24 campaign was a concern, and perhaps with a more assured presence behind the defense, Leeds would have gone up.

Though there are still three weeks of the transfer window remaining, it does not look like Leeds will be making a change anytime soon, given Meslier’s appointment as vice-captain. However, more performances like this will only lead to more question marks against him.

Leeds United needs a goalkeeper who can make important saves and be a leader on the pitch. Meslier’s statistics and performances suggest he is not that man. If the team wants to challenge for promotion, they need to address this issue urgently.

In conclusion, Leeds United’s 3-3 draw against Portsmouth was a frustrating start to the season, with Illan Meslier’s performance being a major concern. His mistakes and inability to make crucial saves cost the team dearly, and it is clear that the goalkeeper position needs addressing. With three weeks left in the transfer window, Leeds United must act quickly to bring in a reliable goalkeeper to challenge for promotion.