Leeds United’s win against Everton will have been a huge confidence boost going into the Premier League, and now it looks as though the Yorkshire side have been delivered another.
After beating the Toffees 1 – 0 at home, Leeds couldn’t be more excited for this season with impressive performances from the likes of new signings Lukas Nmecha and Anton Stach.
Their next opponent is London side Arsenal, against whom they have historically struggled, and recent results reflect that trend.
In their last five meetings, Arsenal have had the clear upper hand, winning four matches and drawing just one, but this latest news could soon change that.
Daniel Farke during Leeds United v Everton - Premier League
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Arsenal without three key stars ahead of Leeds United clash
According to journalist Simon Collings, Arsenal held an open training session today, but three notable players were absent: Kai Havertz, Norgaard, and Ben White.
Adding to this news, David Ornstein has reported that Havertz is set for a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.
While the full prognosis and duration are currently unclear as assessments are at an early stage, it has prompted Arsenal to actively explore the transfer market for a new attacking player to provide cover.
These Arsenal absences create a golden opportunity for several Leeds United players.
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The potential absence of key players like Ben White, a crucial part of their defence, could provide a huge advantage for Leeds. The pace and directness of Willy Gnonto and Dan James could expose any gaps on the flanks.
Likewise, in the midfield, Kai Havertz’s injury could give more space to Leeds’ own playmakers, such as Brenden Aaronson and Lukas Nmecha.
They could thrive on the lack of organisation and link up more effectively with the forwards. Up front, a less-settled Arsenal backline would be a welcome sight for strikers like Joel Piroe and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who could be more effective in front of goal.
Mikel Arteta during Manchester United v Arsenal - Premier League
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Leeds United were dealt an Arsenal boost in pre-season
This isn’t the first boost Leeds United have been dealt ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal.
The Spanish side Villarreal, who Leeds faced in pre-season and held to a draw, handed Arsenal a 3-2 defeat earlier this month.
The Gunners’ defensive frailties were on full display as Villarreal pounced on a loose ball and a parried save to score. They even restored a two-goal cushion by exploiting an Arsenal set-piece with a quick counter-attack.
This plays directly into Daniel Farke’s tactical approach; players like Joel Piroe, known for his predatory finishing, would be key to pouncing on any rebounds or defensive lapses.
In stark contrast, Leeds United showed impressive resilience in their pre-season match against the same Villarreal side, battling to a 1-1 draw.
This strong performance, coupled with Arsenal’s injury issues, puts Leeds in an ideal position.