Daniel Farke’s (DF) future is now settled, thank goodness, so now Leeds United can start to turn our attention to the English Premier League (EPL). Of course, I have no more inside information than anyone else [save Alf], but I have read with interest in terms of who and what we need for next year.
Someone [Brighty] said a long time ago, way before we were up, that we needed to upgrade the spine of our team, and I think he’s spot on that we certainly need more strength and indeed height in our side especially given the importance of set pieces in the EPL.
I would definitely sign Solomon, but as much as he can operate in several different positions, I think we must not assume our formation and style of football will remain the same.
Hardly any teams in the EPL play with two out and out wide men and very few have what we would describe as a skilful no. 10 creator. A significant amount of emphasis is placed on not turning over possession in dangerous areas, it’s a lot more cat and mouse than the Championship.
The challenge to survive requires circa 10 wins and circa 10 draws, it’s no coincidence when you look at the likes of Fulham, Brighton, Brentford and Crystal Palace that they have secured that level of return, and their ethos is clearly, if you can’t win, take a point.
Bournemouth and Iraola has impressed me the most this season – a Bielsa disciple but unlike Bielsa, Iraola has a plan A, B and C. It was a tactical masterclass from Bournemouth at Arsenal and they thoroughly deserved their win. There are no ‘big name’ signings in their side, just an incredibly fit well drilled team who press better than most teams in the league.
It all comes down to how DF wishes to set up and play. For instance, in a predominantly back four formation, Firpo is not strong enough defensively, but as a wing back as part of a 3-5-1-1 formation regularly employed by Brentford, Firpo on his day, can be as good as anyone.
Exciting times ahead, but we’ve already committed to our most important signing in DF and I believe, given proper support and patience, he can keep us up next year.
Don’t just look at teams and players on where potential points may come from (Fulham look very average on paper, but Silva is incredibly talented coach), look at the quality of all the coaches in the division we are joining. Currently, the worst performing coach is Graham Potter previously touted for the England job as he cannot buy a win at West Ham!
Personally, I cannot wait to see what direction DF goes in, but I’m not expecting superstars, but rather a fit very united team, tactically adept and can easily revert to several different systems and styles of play.
Written by Classof92 May 06 2025 12:07:07
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