Daniel Farke with FA Cup trophy at Wembley
Josh Edwards
Tue 7 April 2026 8:10, UK
Leeds United find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle, and also in the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
At 2-0 up, it looked like Leeds were coasting their way to Wembley, but the fact that it took a penalty shootout to decide the winner speaks volumes about the late collapse from the Whites against West Ham.
Nevertheless, the win means that Leeds have reached an FA Cup semi-final for the first time in 39 years, which is quite the achievement.
The Whites will face Chelsea under the arch, with a potential date against either Man City or Southampton in the final should they proceed.
Leeds will dream of winning the FA Cup, but is that now worth more than staying in the Premier League?
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FA Cup triumph would be major for Leeds
It’s been 30 years since Leeds made it to Wembley for a cup final. If any supporter was asked if they wanted to see that happen, it would be an instant yes.
However, would it still be a yes if the prospect of winning the FA Cup came with relegation from the Premier League? Some would still say so.
FA Cup Leeds
2025-26 *Semi-final
2024-25 Fourth round
2023-24 Fifth round
2022-23 Fifth round
2021-22 Third round
2020-21 Third round
2019-20 Third round
*Ongoing FA Cup run
The chances of Leeds winning a major trophy are slim at best, but the position they are in now means they are in the best spot to do so, and will ever likely be in for a long time.
If Leeds were relegated from the Premier League, they would certainly bounce back. Immediately? Who knows, but they would certainly be back.
Leeds last trophy
If Leeds were to miss out on silverware, could anyone truly say with confidence that it won’t be long until they’re back there? They couldn’t.
The riches of the FA Cup are slim, but the reward of European football could be huge for Leeds, even if they were to be relegated in the same season.
How much is Premier League survival worth?
Teams relegated from the Premier League would take a huge hit financially, especially when taking into account the broadcast deals that come with being in the top flight.
As for Leeds, that is a huge factor behind the success they can find, given the way they will have their hands tied behind their back due to PSR rules.
It’s estimated that survival in the Premier League is worth over £100million, when taking into account all of their different revenue streams and sponsors.
Is that more valuable than silverware for Leeds? Opinions will be mixed.