With pressure mounting on Daniel Farke, reports have emerged this week suggesting Jurgen Klopp could make a sensational return to management with Leeds United. Graham Smyth has had his say.
The pressure is on Farke after three defeats in four, with an incredibly tough-looking winter period on the horizon. After the November break, Leeds are going to be right up against it right until the New Year.
In-form Aston Villa, Man City, Chelsea, FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, surprise package Sunderland, and Liverpool twice before the Manchester United game, which has been moved to January 4, a day later.
Sunday’s trip to Nottingham Forest is going to be incredibly difficult and yet, Leeds need a result. If Farke loses that game, pressure will increase during the break. It has prompted links with a return for Klopp.
Daniel Farke and Jurgen Klopp ahead of Liverpool FC v Norwich City - Premier League
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Graham Smyth rubbishes reports regarding Jurgen Klopp
A report from TeamTalk in the last week suggested that Klopp could make a sensational return to the dugout with Leeds. Klopp, of course, is working as Redbull’s Head of Global Soccer, with Leeds involved.
But Klopp has often made it clear he will never manage another club in England after his Liverpool stint. He recently told The Diary of a CEO that the door is open to return to Liverpool if Arne Slot departs.
But another English club remains out of the question. Smyth discussed the reports that Klopp could take over from Farke, and he rubbished the reports. He made it clear that Klopp will not be replacing Farke.
Presentation Of Jürgen Klopp As Head Of Global Soccer Red Bull
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“When I saw this headline, I thought there has been some terrible Leeds headlines, but this might actually be the worst, top five worst. ‘Stunning Leeds links explode into life.’ The piece makes it clear it’s unlikely.
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“I mean, the man himself has quite literally said the words, ‘I’m not going to manage another team in England’. I’m not someone who’s followed Jürgen Klopp’s career, particularly closely,” Smyth continued.
“I would imagine that a national team, like the German national team, would be far more inevitable than a recently promoted to the Premier League club. Just bizarre, weird, and ultimately feels very pointless.”
The issue with sacking Daniel Farke in the next few weeks
Leeds’ struggles are not all Farke’s doing and it must be remembered that as things stand, Leeds have done well and competed in the majority of their 10 Premier League games. Brighton and Arsenal, aside.
Farke wanted more attacking players and didn’t get them. He’s having to make do with what he’s got and ultimately, it feels like he’s doing all he can. But, if there is going to be a change, the manager goes first.
Daniel Farke applauds Leeds United fans after a Premier League defeat at Brighton
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If Leeds do sack Farke, who will enter the last 18 months of his contract when January hits, who do Leeds bring in? Realistically, who is willingly going to join a side fighting relegation with the run Leeds have?
This is the issue Leeds had when sacking Jesse Marsch. This side has been built and created by Farke and he deserves the time and arguably, the season, to keep this Leeds team in the Premier League.