Hakeem Yusuf
Leeds United’s starting XI leaked online hours before kickoff, and the reaction from fans was immediate.Supporters flooded social media after spotting two star names missing from the lineup ahead of the Arsenal clash.The leaked team sheet showed major changes from Daniel Farke, with Wilfried Gnonto and Joel Piroe both left out of the starting side. Both players rank among Leeds’ top attacking outlets this season, combining pace, goals, and pressing from the front. Their absence sparked anger and confusion across fan forums and X.Many expected Leeds to field their strongest attack against an Arsenal side chasing points at the top end of the table. Instead, Farke opted for a reshuffled front line, placing more responsibility on Brenden Aaronson and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.Fans reacted fast.Some questioned the timing of the decision.Others pointed at recent form, asking why proven goal threats were dropped for a high-pressure fixture.Several accused the coaching staff of overthinking the game.One supporter wrote: “You don’t bench your most dangerous players against Arsenal. This makes no sense.”Another added: “Gnonto changes games in one moment. Leaving him out feels reckless.”The leaked XI listed:GoalkeeperLucas PerriDefenseJayden BogleJaka BijolSebastiaan BornauwJunior FirpoMidfieldAo TanakaAnton StachBrenden AaronsonAttackDominic Calvert-LewinCrysencio SummervilleGeorginio RutterThe biggest talking point remained the absence of Gnonto and Piroe, both of whom featured heavily in recent matches.Inside Elland Road circles, the move reportedly links to tactical balance and fitness management, with Arsenal expected to dominate possession. Farke appears set on adding midfield solidity and aerial presence, even if it costs attacking spark.Data from recent games shows Gnonto averages over two successful dribbles per match and ranks among Leeds’ top three for shots created. Piroe leads the squad in goal involvements since December. For many fans, those numbers made the decision harder to accept.Leaks like this often surface 30 to 90 minutes before Premier League kickoffs, usually through stadium insiders or journalist contacts. Still, this one hit earlier than usual, giving supporters time to dissect every detail.The official lineup release only confirmed what fans already feared.Pressure now shifts squarely onto the selected eleven.If results go Leeds’ way, the noise fades. If not, questions will grow louder around squad management and big-game selection.All eyes turn to the pitch. Fans want answers. Only performance will provide them.
Nafisa