Daniel Farke shares his honest thoughts on Willy Gnonto’s development since he took Leeds United job

Add as preferred source on Google

The last two years have been a roller coaster for a lot of players at Leeds United, but none more so than Willy Gnonto. A player who has grown up and now, holds the key to securing promotion.

When Farke first arrived at Elland Road, players were desperate to leave the club. Plenty had relegation loan clauses and could go without Leeds stopping them, but Gnonto wanted to go without a clause.

Given so many were leaving, Gnonto’s transfer request was rejected. The 21-year-old was forced to stay put at Elland Road and while he warmed the bench for the first half of the season, he became crucial.

His 12 goals and assists for Leeds guided them to the play-off final and he signed a new contract even though, Leeds didn’t go up. This season, he’s warmed the bench again – but perhaps, only until now.

• READ MORE: Daniel Farke explains why it will be so difficult to keep Leeds in the Premier League

Daniel Farke raves about Willy Gnonto’s development at Leeds

Farke inherited a player with 13 Italy caps, shining in the Premier League but emotionally raw. Gnonto needed bringing back down to earth and Farke has done that during his time as manager at Elland Road.

Graham Smyth expects Gnonto to start on Saturday, which will be his first league start of 2025. Speaking to German site TransferMarkt, Farke summarised his time working with Gnonto and praised the winger.

“Gnonto has developed tremendously. Like every young player, he still has room to improve. Especially in terms of consistency. I can imagine where many go, but ultimately, the guys have to make it happen.”

Gnonto’s numbers for Leeds United before Farke, and with him

Gnonto has been treated harshly by Farke in some quarters this season, but his behavior must not be forgotten when he refused to play for Leeds against Shrewsbury, Birmingham City and West Brom.

While it is against Championship opposition, Gnonto has improved under Farke on the pitch as well as off of it. He makes an impact when used and this term, has the same goals and assists as Brenden Aaronson.

That’s despite playing 1200 minutes less than the American, who has now started 37 League matches in a row. Gnonto is the one in form, and holds the key to promotion if Leeds do eventually get the job done.