Daniel Farke is approaching two years as Leeds United manager but having clocked up 97 matches, the German may be sacked soon after surpassing 100 games in charge.
With seven games left in the Championship season, possibly 9 or 10 if Leeds finish in the play-offs, Farke has one aim and one aim only. To guide this Leeds side into the Premier League at the second attempt.
The German manager came close last season, slipping in the normal season in the last few games before losing the play-off final. This term, Leeds have slipped in the last five games but have seven to put it right.
There seems to be little doubt that if Farke does not win promotion this season, Leeds will look for a new manager. Certainly, there may even be doubts if Leeds do go up – Graeme Bailey wouldn’t be surprised.
Daniel Farke knew he wanted Leeds United job six years ago
Way back in 2019, Norwich City came to Elland Road with the Canaries eventually securing the title that season while Leeds went into the play-offs. In February 2019, Norwich and Farke beat Leeds, a 3-1 win.
Leeds were 3-0 down under Marcelo Bielsa before Patrick Bamford scored an injury-time consolation goal. A bad result, but Farke says it is the moment he realised he wanted to take over at Leeds United.
“When I came several years ago – it was a situation with Norwich, a promotion battle. Leeds were first. The sense was if Leeds beat Norwich, Leeds would be promoted. All white scrves, Marching On Together.
“I thought wow what an atmosphere. Obviously, Norwich had the better ending. I was thinking, I loved so much to be in this stadium. This is a massive club. I was thinking one day I’d like to come here to manage.
“I know how difficult to stay calm. I know I’ve got enough calmness for the whole of Yorkshire. I know how bad Leeds want to be successful. My task is to make sure we stick together and not over react,” he added.
Daniel Farke’s record from his 97 games as manager at Leeds
Just three games shy of reaching 100 games, Farke could reach a total of 58 wins if Leeds go and beat Luton, Middlesbrough and then Preston next weekend. In those 100 matches, Leeds have scored 188.
An incredible record, averaging a total of 1.94 points over the 97 games. How oh how, Leeds need the German manager to finish the season with 62 wins from 104 matches – winning the seven games left.
But given the form, the chances of Leeds picking up 21 points from a possible 21 seems very unlikely. What points total do Leeds need? It’s looking as if a mid-nineties total might just be enough to do it.
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