Two successive Premier League defeats, four in Leeds United’s eight games, and the pressure is growing on Daniel Farke, even if The Whites remain on course for a point a game.
While Leeds have secured big results against Everton and Wolves and won a point against Newcastle and Bournemouth, Saturday’s defeat to Burnley was worrying. There was an utter lack of end product.
Farke was without Willy Gnonto and Noah Okafor, two of his most exciting attackers. Dan James had only just returned from injury and came on as a sub. Micah Richards thought Leeds dominated the game.
Yet, Leeds failed to win. It has been the story in several games, Leeds’ performance outdoing the actual result. Leeds deserved to beat Tottenham and Bournemouth, and they deserved a point against Fulham.
Daniel Farke at Turf Moor.
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Aidy White discusses Daniel Farke’s future as Leeds manager
Yet, Leeds failed to win any of them. On Saturday, Leeds boasted an XG north of 2.5 and still couldn’t find the back of the net. Brenden Aaronson and Jack Harrison missed big chances to equalise for The Whites.
Two chances for Burnley equated to two goals and that was that. Is it Farke’s fault? Or are injuries and a lack of composure in front of goal costing the German? Aidy White thinks Farke has three key games.
Especially, because after the next three games, Leeds face a December list of fixtures that sees them face Man City, Chelsea, Liverpool twice and FA Cup winners Crystal Palace. Farke and Leeds need points, now.
The former Leeds defender told BBC Radio Leeds after the defeat to Burnley: “I don’t think changing manager, in this period over the next three or four games, is wise. This is an important period.
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“I don’t think it’s the right thing to do. If he doesn’t do well in this period, then huge decisions will need to be made,” White said. Leeds face West Ham at home before going to Brighton and then Forest.
Dan Farke covers his face during Leeds United vs Burnley.
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How long does Daniel Farke have left on his Leeds contract?
It is now more than two years since Farke arrived at Elland Road, taking over the reins after relegation from the Premier League in 2023. At the time, Farke put pen to paper on a four-year contract at Leeds.
The German has gone on record as saying he did not understand the mess he had inherited, but he is still in the hot seat, 112 games later. That four-year deal remains, lasting until the summer of 2027.
It is a good move from The 49ers. It means that if Leeds do need to relieve Farke, compensation will not be extortionate – something Nottingham Forest might be about to find out with Ange Postecoglou.