With Leeds United six clear of the relegation zone, there’s hope that survival could be clinched alongside a memorable FA Cup run under Daniel Farke.
Back in November, it looked highly unlikely that Daniel Farke would be finishing the season as Leeds manager.
Fast forward to mid-April and we’re six clear of the drop with six to play, having just bossed Manchester United off the park at Old Trafford, with an FA Cup semi-final on the way later this month.
Leeds United dream of FA Cup glory as mouthwatering Chelsea semi-final clash looms
One would anticipate that Leeds are third-favourites out of four for this year’s FA Cup trophy. Having seen off West Ham on penalties, United now face Chelsea at Wembley later this month, looking to book a place in the final against either Manchester City or Southampton.
Us fans have seldom seen United at Wembley, not least in an enjoyable day out for a cup semi-final, where there’s much less trepidation over the season being ruined in 90 minutes, like playoff finals.
Given our performance at Old Trafford, though, is there a world where Leeds can go to the capital without fear and pull off an incredible shock?
Chelsea are out of sorts at the moment. We’ve already taken four points off them this season. And, they sit below the side we’ve just schooled in their own stadium. You’ve got to be feeling optimistic and willing to dream that this could be a historic year for us.
Of course, Man City would likely loom in the final, or we’d face a PTSD-ridden clash with Southampton instead. But we’ve got this far, why not dream of winning the whole thing?
Paraag Marathe already avoids smart Leeds United, Rangers dilemma after Crystal Palace fiasco
You can tell I’m feeling incredibly optimistic here. Why not, though?
We’re two games away from winning the FA Cup for only the second time in our history, so it’s a genuine possibility to consider.
On top of that triumph, Leeds would then qualify for the Europa League. The immediate concern, though, is falling into the same trap as Crystal Palace.
Famously, the Eagles won the FA Cup in 2025. However, they were kicked out of the Europa League and into the Conference League. That decision came due to former director John Textor’s multi-club links with Lyon, deemed non-compliant with UEFA’s regulations.
Where Leeds are concerned, we’re obviously tied under the 49ers’ ownership with Scottish giants Rangers. Paraag Marathe’s influence as Leeds chairman would come under scrutiny if we are to amazingly qualify for the Europa League.
When the 49ers took over Rangers, Marathe was appointed as vice chairman. However, he has since stood down from his role at Ibrox along with Leeds director Gene Schneur. That came following discussions with UEFA – per the BBC.
This decision came back in the end of February. It was resolved two days prior to UEFA’s deadline for clubs to ensure they are compliant.
For Rangers to qualify for the Europa League through the Scottish Premiership, the most likely route would be finishing runners-up in the league (currently second). They’d then face Champions League qualifying playoffs, losing those would see them drop into the Europa League qualifying playoffs.
If Leeds are to stun Chelsea and Man City (or Southampton) and win the FA Cup, then Europa League qualification wouldn’t be in doubt like Palace.
Read more: £10.4m Leeds United ‘price tag’ is proven to be nonsense yet again.
0% Love 0% Funny 0% Wow 0% Sad 0% Angry
Post navigation