Daniel Farke, Everton
(Credit: Imago)
Kyrenia Shipillis
Tue 19 August 2025 14:10, UK
Leeds United did the unthinkable against Everton in the Premier League on Monday.
A dubious call from James Tarkowski saw Lukas Nmecha slam home a penalty as Leeds returned to the Premier League with a bang.
The penalty helped Leeds defeat Everton at Elland Road. But spectators should not be fooled – Leeds were by far the better team.
From beginning to end, the Whites dominated the ball, with Ao Tanaka the real standout against the Toffees. But his performance was not the only thing that impressed on the night.
Daniel Farke celebrates a Leeds win whilst at Elland Road.
United were impressive against Everton (Credit: Imago)
Leeds become first Championship winners in 17 years to win Premier League opener
Leeds’ win against Everton came as a shock after the Whites drew their last three pre-season friendlies.
MORE LEEDS STORIES
But United stood firm against the Blues’ advances to secure all three points. The Whites now sit seventh in the Premier League table with just one game played.
While it is far too early for festivities, Leeds fans can celebrate a small win this week. With the victory against Everton, Leeds are the first Championship title holders in 17 years to win their opening game back in the Premier League.
Leicester City drew against Tottenham the season prior
Burnley were handed a huge 3-0 thrashing by Manchester City in 2023
United are now the first side to achieve this feat since Sunderland defeated Tottenham in a 1-0 victory on the opening match day of the 2007/08 season.
This will come as a huge boost in Daniel Farke’s hopes of remaining in the first division once the season comes to an end.
How should Leeds prepare for Arsenal?
Leeds fans were hoping that new recruit Dominic Calvert-Lewin would take the stage against his former club. However, he should be handed his debut against Arsenal at the Emirates on 23 August.
The Whites will want to continue their impressive run of form with a win against the Gunners, and their most recent win against Manchester United may have revealed how to do it.
Mikel Arteta was conservative in his approach at Old Trafford, where a set-piece goal separated the two sides.
It is unlikely that Arteta will line up the same way, but he will look to exploit Leeds’ backline during corner kicks. According to OptaAnalyst, Arsenal scored 13 goals from set pieces last season.
The North London side emphasised them last season and struggled to score from open play even at home. There is no reason to suggest that Arteta will do the same this period, even with Viktor Gyokeres in the squad.
Therefore, Leeds should look to be conservative at the back and unleash on the counter to win all three points.
Sign up for the MOT Leeds News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Leeds United news sent straight to your phone.
Related Posts