NEW SIGNINGS: Strenghtening the Squad with New Players is a matter of URGENCY For Leeds BUT There’s an Unusual Silence

The Challenges Facing Leeds United: A Critical Period Ahead

Leeds United, a storied football club with a rich history, is facing a critical period in their season. The sale of two key players, Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray, has left a void in the team’s attacking options. Furthermore, the potential departure of Georginio Rutter to Brighton for £40m has sent shockwaves through the club. Manager Daniel Farke’s side has conceded six goals in two games, and the team’s depth was exposed in a 3-0 loss to Middlesbrough.

The sales of Summerville and Gray were challenging but manageable. However, the potential loss of Rutter has put Farke’s side in a difficult situation. Rutter was the standout player at Elland Road, and his numbers led the way not just for Leeds but in the entire second tier. His departure will leave Leeds short up front and overall, with only 19 first-team players, the smallest squad in the Championship.

Farke has withdrawn Leeds’ status as Championship favorites due to the sales. In a press conference, he stated, “We know we are not there with the strength anymore as a big favorite.” This is a significant contrast to club legend Eddie Gray’s statement of “favourites tag justified” in the previous week.

Leeds needs to bring in new bodies, but it’s proving tough. Jonathan Rowe has been a major target in the transfer window to fill the lost bodies in attack, but the Championship side face a major obstacle in French top-flight side Marseille. Farke prefers permanent deals over loans, as those players would be “fully committed.” However, finding a premium target may be challenging, especially with many squads already settled.

The team’s defensive issues were exposed in the 3-0 loss to Middlesbrough. Leeds conceded 17 chances, a ridiculous number based on Farke’s previous work. Jermaine Beckford, in his post-match assessment of Leeds on Sky Sports, stated, “Frustrated… Based on what Daniel Farke does with his sides, he keeps them well-organised and doesn’t allow too many chances.”

Despite the disappointing start, Leeds shouldn’t panic yet. Farke’s teams often start slow and peak later, as seen in his previous Championship title wins with Norwich City. In his first season with Norwich, Farke won just one out of his first six league matches but went on to win the title. Similarly, in the 2020-21 campaign, Farke’s side won just once in the first four games but claimed the trophy.

Leeds can take promise from Brentford’s promotion