Daniel Farke’s head coach job title at Leeds United under serious scrutiny as Leeds went into Chelsea home game on verge of disaster. Heading into the game, his future here looked very much in doubt. Paraag Marathe’s presence at Elland Road heightened speculation regarding Farke’s job security, suggesting that the stakes were high during this critical phase of the season.
In perhaps a big tactical risk, Farke went with a 3-5-2 against Chelsea, and the move was brilliant. That new formation helped shaped Leeds United to a convincing 3-1 win. Aside from inspiring confidence in Farke, this win likely bought him some more time at the club. This successful deployment revealed the strengths of the Leeds United squad brilliantly. More than that, it created a perfect smokescreen to hide their weaknesses in wide attacking areas.
The 3-5-2 formation had been their bread and butter, touch and go, during training camps giving players the opportunity to adapt to the new framework. That in turn has made Jaka Bijol, who was initially shaky in a back three, much more confident. Under the cover that hold-mid Ethan Ampadu provides, he flourishes. The addition of wing-backs Gabriel Gudmundsson and Jayden Bogle gave life to a previously atrocious attack. Their speed and creativity made the combination play out wide unstoppable.
Despite this surprisingly great result at Chelsea, Farke is still very hesitant to fully commit to this kind of approach long-term. He admitted that he does not see the 3-5-2 as just a one-time deal. Rather, he suggested that it should be seen as an initial starting point, but one that could shape the way Leeds United operate going forwards.
“When we were winning most games [last season], we did not change our base formation much,” – Daniel Farke
Leeds United are getting ready for their enormous clash against Liverpool. Farke has challenges here too with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha both now serious doubts. A victory against Liverpool could alleviate lingering questions regarding his tenure at the club, allowing him to shift focus back to team performance rather than personal job security.
Farke was keen for people to understand that his first loyalty is to his players, not to his employment status.
“I’m not wasting any energy thinking about myself,” – Daniel Farke
He elaborated on his commitment to supporting his team by stating, “If you want to lead such a passionate club like Leeds United you have to focus all your energy to help the boys, to be a shield for the players and to protect them.”
This philosophy is indicative of Farke’s awareness of the unique pressures that accompany managing a historic club such as Leeds United. His awareness of individual player qualities and the necessity for flexibility within the squad is crucial in bridging gaps in performance.
“But you have to bridge this gap of individual quality, you have to be more flexible,” – Daniel Farke
That win against Chelsea highlighted a trait that is new and different, but entirely welcome to this Leeds United side operating under Farke’s stewardship. Football pundit Gary Neville commented positively on the transformation he observed during the match, noting that it represented a departure from previous performances.
“Leeds showed me something different [against Chelsea],” – Gary Neville
Farke’s tactical tweak has certainly been effective and arguably made a positive impression on players and supporters as well. The manager is clearly committed to the club’s long-term success. His willingness to change his approach but stick to basic principles is what separates him from others.
As the speculation rages over Farke’s tenure, the next match against Liverpool will be daunting. A win could not only secure points vital for Leeds United’s standing in the league but serve as a pivotal moment in affirming Farke’s role at the helm.
Leave a Reply