Qudus SalihuThe pressure cooker at Elland Road has exploded following Leeds United’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, pushing the newly-promoted side dangerously close to the relegation zone. Manager Daniel Farke is reportedly furious after the latest abysmal away performance, which has triggered immediate and vociferous demands from the fanbase for the board to sack him.
The loss at the City Ground, which further highlighted the team’s persistent inability to compete on the road, saw sections of the traveling support turn on the German manager. Chants and online discourse urging the board to “act immediately” and dismiss Farke have intensified, with many fans citing his poor Premier League record from his time at Norwich as proof he is not the man for the job.
Farke, who has previously acknowledged the intense pressure that comes with managing a club as emotional and large as Leeds, has often defended his project, which included guiding them back to the top flight. However, the latest result—a fourth loss in five away league games—has made his position precarious.
In his post-match comments, a visibly exasperated Farke addressed the struggles, saying, “Football games on this level are decided with small details. We have to make sure we are more switched on. I did expect a tricky period. We have conceded too many goals in the last two away games.” While Farke is focused on fixing the issues, the sentiment from the supporters is growing ugly. Many feel his tactical rigidity away from home is the fundamental problem, a concern that the approaching international break could force the hand of the 49ers Enterprises ownership to make a drastic change.
Qudus Salihu
Rabiu Aminu
Nafisa