Sport nationDan Emery: Leeds United Should Cut Ties with Rasmus Kristensen
Leeds United’s failure to secure promotion to the Premier League last season led to the departure of key players. The likes of Archie Gray, Glen Kamara, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter all left Elland Road in search of top-flight football. Now, manager Daniel Farke must focus on promoting talent within the squad, while offloading underperforming players.
One player who has emerged as a key figure for Farke is Italian whiz Wilfried Gnonto. Despite interest from Premier League side Everton, Gnonto remained at Leeds and signed a new four-year contract. This commitment is a significant boost for the Whites, as Gnonto has been impressive in the Championship.
Gnonto’s creativity and goal-scoring ability make him a valuable asset for Leeds. His statistics from the 2023/24 Championship season demonstrate his potential:
- 36 appearances
- Eight goals
- Five big chances created
- Two assists
In contrast, Rasmus Kristensen has struggled since joining Leeds in 2022. The right-back’s performances in the Premier League were underwhelming, and his loan spells at Roma and Eintracht Frankfurt have not justified his £10m transfer fee. Kristensen’s contract situation, expiring in 2026, gives Leeds leverage to negotiate a transfer.
Eintracht Frankfurt is interested in signing Kristensen permanently for around £10m but is looking to negotiate a lower fee. Leeds should consider selling for a reduced price rather than risking losing him for nothing in the future.
Kristensen’s statistics in the Premier League were concerning:
- 26 appearances
- 69% pass accuracy
- Dribbled past 34 times
- One clean sheet
- 54% duel success rate
These numbers highlight Kristensen’s struggles in the top flight. His inability to make a significant impact has led to questions about his value to the team.
Leeds must prioritize talent like Gnonto and cut ties with underperforming players like Kristensen. The £12m invested in Kristensen has yielded minimal returns, and it’s time for Farke to make a change.
Farke’s decision will shape Leeds United’s future and determine whether they can return to the Premier League. With the Championship season underway, Leeds sits sixth in the table, having lost only one of their opening six games. While Gnonto has started the season well, Kristensen’s future remains uncertain.
The Danish defender’s loan spell at Eintracht Frankfurt has sparked interest in a permanent transfer. Frankfurt’s sporting director, Markus Krösche, has recognized manager Dino Toppmöller’s desire to keep Kristensen beyond his current loan.
However, Leeds should be cautious about negotiating a deal. Kristensen’s contract situation and Frankfurt’s interest provide leverage, but the Whites must prioritize securing a fair price.
Leeds’ focus should be on promoting players who contribute to the team’s success. Gnonto’s growth and potential make him an asset worth retaining, while Kristensen’s struggles justify his departure.
As the January transfer window approaches, Farke will face crucial decisions about his squad. Offloading Kristensen and investing in talent like Gnonto will be vital in Leeds’ pursuit of promotion.
The coming months will reveal Farke’s vision for Leeds United. One thing is certain – the Whites are at a crossroads, and their decisions will shape their future in the Championship and beyond.
With Gnonto leading the charge, Leeds has a fighting chance of returning to the Premier League. Cutting ties with Kristensen would be a step in the right direction, allowing Farke to focus on players who can drive success.
Only time will tell if Leeds can bounce back from last season’s disappointment. However, with Gnonto on board and Kristensen potentially on his way out, the Whites are taking positive steps toward a brighter future.
Sport nation
Amina Umar