Leeds United have had a mixed start to the 2025/26 season so far, particularly in terms of results. However, Daniel Farke is getting some things spot on.
Leeds United could have more points than they currently have, with games against the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth, and Fulham all being particularly unfortunate not to have taken an extra point or two.
| Position | Team | Played MP | Won W | Drawn D | Lost L | For GF | Against GA | Diff GD | Points Pts |
| 11 |  NewcastleNewcastle | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 9 |
| 12 |  BrightonBrighton | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 10 | 10 | 0 | 9 |
| 13 |  Aston VillaAston Villa | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 7 | -1 | 9 |
| 14 |  FulhamFulham | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 11 | -3 | 8 |
| 15 |  LeedsLeeds | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 7 | 11 | -4 | 8 |
| 16 |  BrentfordBrentford | 7 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 12 | -3 | 7 |
| 17 |  Nottingham ForestNottingham Forest | 7 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 12 | -7 | 5 |
| 18 |  BurnleyBurnley | 7 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 7 | 15 | -8 | 4 |
| 19 |  West HamWest Ham | 7 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 16 | -10 | 4 |
That said, Leeds’ points total has been put into perspective recently when compared to recent Premier League campaigns. In truth, each of the newly-promoted Premier League trio have started well.
But Sunderland and Leeds have been incredibly impressive. Leeds’ tactical shift in the Premier League has been evident, with more directness and a real physicality and aggression in their midfield, which can also be said of the Black Cats.
- READ MORE: Jaka Bijol opens up on frustration at Leeds United, wants first start ‘as soon as possible’
Leeds and Sunderland post impressive big chances conceded numbers
In pre-season, Daniel Farke wanted more tactical flexibility in the Premier League, and one aspect has changed drastically in that sense already.
The more direct approach from Farke has transformed Leeds from the ball-dominant team of 2024/25. It suits the squad as well, even if it is not a guarantee that the decision for Leeds to prioritise Premier League physicality will pay off.
So far, it seems to be. The latest reveal shows Leeds and Sunderland are competing well in games and giving their opposition very few big chances to speak of. The same is not true of Burnley under Scott Parker.
Per Gianni Buttice, two of the newly-promoted defences are more than holding their own. In terms of big chances conceded, Leeds are fourth and Sunderland are sixth. However, Burnley are letting the trio down in 20th.
Leeds fans think Burnley will be relegated in the end, but they are clearly the weakest of the trio so far. The Whites do not concede many chances and Leeds are a tactically strong counter-attacking team as well.
They are only four behind Arsenal’s miserly defence in terms of big chances conceded as well. Farke has evolved and adapted the side from last season.
Leeds’ other impressive stat in the Premier League
With Leeds’ physically combative midfield, they are able to impose themselves on the opposition in and out of possession. The likes of Anton Stach, Sean Longstaff, and Ethan Ampadu are smart players off the ball.
Often in their midblock, Leeds have frustrated teams already. They have also faced three sides who are in the UEFA Champions League this season. Only four teams have conceded less in terms of xG against in the division.
Per FBref, they are: Arsenal (4.3), Newcastle United (4.7), Bournemouth (6.3), and Man City (7.1). Leeds have conceded the same amount as Liverpool with 7.9.
It’s not like Leeds have totally sacrificed creating chances, either. Leeds are 12th for xG generated of their own. They are trending nicely on the underlying performance data.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
