Daniel Farke has delivered promotion back to the Premier League, but even after a 6-0 thrashing of Stoke and a season of dominance, his future at Leeds United hangs in the balance.
Farke guided Leeds back to the top flight, courtesy of a commanding win at Elland Road and Burnley’s victory over Sheffield United. With two matches left and the Championship title still within reach, the celebrations should be unfiltered. But behind the scenes, questions swirl over whether the man who got them here will lead them into battle next season.
It’s understood the club’s hierarchy had always planned to review the managerial position in the summer. Farke’s bold call to drop goalkeeper Illan Meslier for the season run-in won him admirers at board level. Yet, doubts remain over his track record in the Premier League.
The German’s time with Norwich offers a cautionary tale. Despite securing two promotions, he managed just six wins in 49 Premier League outings and was sacked in 2021 after a dire top-flight run. Leeds, wary of history repeating itself, are exploring alternatives even as Farke maintains he is unbothered by speculation.
In his post-match comments, Farke deflected focus to his squad: “To deliver such an emphatic performance is really amazing and all the credit goes to the boys… and the spirit they have shown in recent weeks.”
Since joining Leeds in 2023, Farke has claimed 59 wins in 102 games, reshaping a squad and rebuilding belief. But with all three promoted sides from last season relegated and Southampton and Leicester already down this term, Leeds know sentiment can’t cloud judgment.
Whether Farke stays or goes, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
