In football, some players are defined by their statistics, while others are remembered for their personality. But what if a player could offer both?
Anton Stach has hit the ground running at Leeds United, with an unbelievable goal during their recent AC Milan pre-season friendly.
The German international has also sparked an exciting comparison with a fan favourite from a bygone era.
On the pitch, both players share an incredible work rate and a knack for progressive play. Off it, they both possess a cheeky, mischievous side that has instantly endeared them to the Elland Road faithful.
Anton Stach playing for Leeds United.
Photo by Tim Clayton/Getty Images
Anton Stach v Mateusz Klich: A statistical showdown
Anton Stach and Mateusz Klich, though a bit different in their roles, share key traits that suggest Stach could be the new midfield anchor for Leeds.
Anton Stach is a physical, 6’4″ defensive midfielder known for his dominance in duels and strong defensive actions. He’s also praised for his composure and passing, making him a solid link between defence and attack.
In the 2024-25 Bundesliga season, Stach recorded a remarkable 54 aerial duels won and 46 interceptions.
Anton Stach Mateusz Klich
Assists 2 5
Accurate long balls 77 52
Cross accuracy 45.8% 19.0%
Touches 2,003 1,819
Duels won 168 84
Aerial duels won 54 15
Interceptions 46 11
Stach’s stats from the 2024/25 Hoffenheim season, Klich’s stats from the 2020/21 Leeds season
Mateusz Klich was a versatile, box-to-box midfielder for Leeds, known for his relentless work rate and high-energy pressing. At 6’0″, he used his intensity and quick decision-making to win the ball back and create chances, becoming an engine in Marcelo Bielsa’s system.
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
During his first full Premier League season in 2020/21, Klich registered 20 tackles, 11 interceptions and he won 15 aerial duels, reflecting his different physical profile.
Stach’s versatility to play various midfield and defensive roles mirrors Klich’s adaptability. Both players excel at moving the ball forward from deep, a vital skill for Leeds’ style of play.
Stach is expected to fill the void left by Klich and was recently given a high rating for his pre-season performances.
Mateusz Klich playing for Leeds United.
Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images
The mischievous side of Anton Stach and Mateusz Klich
Mateusz Klich was well known for his cheeky and mischievous behaviour that endeared him to Leeds United fans. His antics were often dubbed “Klich-housery.”
One of his most memorable moments came during the “Spygate” saga with Derby County in 2019. After Leeds United beat Derby in the playoffs, Klich celebrated by making a binocular gesture towards the away fans, mocking Derby’s role in the scandal.
Klich was known for his social media presence, where he would often get under the skin of rival fans and teams. This behaviour, along with squirting water bottles at players and celebrating Leeds’ successes, made him a fan favourite.
Like Klich, Anton Stach’s personality has quickly caught the attention of the Leeds fanbase. His social media presence, particularly on Instagram, has already given fans a glimpse into a cheeky, mischievous side that is reminiscent of the beloved former midfielder.
In a recent Instagram post, Stach shared a photo of himself edited onto the famous image of The Beatles walking on Abbey Road. This post, which went viral among fans, showed his sense of humour and willingness to engage with the culture of his new club and city.
This simple, relatable act of a professional footballer acting like a fan has instantly endeared him to the Leeds faithful.
These small glimpses into his off-pitch personality have created a buzz among supporters who are hoping he brings a similar blend of on-field tenacity and off-field personality that made Klich such a cult hero.