Leeds United’s defeat to Sheffield Wednesday highlighted Daniel Farke’s biggest problem

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To say Leeds United’s start to the season has been a rollercoaster would be an understatement, and the Yorkshire side still have work to do on their squad.

The Whites’ opening day victory against Everton at Elland Road now feels like months ago after the past two games.

After a 5 – 0 beating from Arsenal, a game which always promised to be tough, and crashing out of the Carabao Cup on penalties to Sheffield Wednesday, the Peacocks are clearly lacking.

Leeds have brought in ten new signings, taking their spending to just over £100m, so where are they falling short?

Leeds United’s poor form when it comes to their attacking line

Leeds United’s Carabao Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday showcased a tale of two halves: a solid, commanding defence and a disjointed, struggling attack.

According to FotMob’s match ratings, it was the defensive line that truly shone, with ratings well above the rest of the team.

Despite the ultimate penalty shootout defeat, the backline’s efforts were a significant positive. Newcomer Jaka Bijol had a fantastic game, earning a 7.9 rating. He played the full 90 minutes, led the team with 102 completed passes, and won a match-high ten duels.

Alongside him, Jack Harrison also earned a 7.9 for his defensive work, making seven recoveries. The strong performances continued with Sam Byram (7.7) and Sebastiaan Bornauw (7.5), who collectively contributed with chances created, passes into the final third, and high pass accuracy.

• Jaka Bijol: 7.9
• Jack Harrison: 7.9
• Sam Byram: 7.7
• Sebastiaan Bornauw: 7.5
• Wilfried Gnonto: 7.4
• Noah Okafor: 7.4
• Jayden Bogle: 7.4
• Joel Piroe: 7.3
• Sean Longstaff: 7.1
• Brenden Aaronson: 6.9
• Ilia Gruev: 6.6
• Dominic Calvert-Lewin: 6.4
• Lukas Nmecha: 6.4
• Anton Stach: 6.4
• Karl Darlow: 5.2

However, the team’s attack was where a distinct drop-off occurred. Lukas Nmecha received a 6.4, managing only one shot on target and a mere two touches in the opposition’s box.

Brenden Aaronson’s rating was only marginally better at 6.9, with just one shot on target. The most telling stats belonged to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who, despite four shots and six touches in the box, was given a 6.4 rating for missing three big chances.

Despite Calvert-Lewin’s struggles, Leeds boss Daniel Farke has backed DCL to find his feet. The numbers suggest that while Leeds’ defensive foundations appear strong, their offensive output remains a significant area for concern.

How Leeds United need to improve in their next five games

Based on Leeds United’s attacking struggles, their next five fixtures, against Newcastle, Fulham, Wolves, Bournemouth, and Tottenham, offer crucial opportunities for improvement.

The primary area for concern is their finishing. Forwards like Dominic Calvert-Lewin must become more clinical, turning promising chances into goals, especially against Newcastle’s depleted defence.

To support this, the team needs to enhance its creative link-up play. Midfielders like Brenden Aaronson are essential here, as his technical skill and pressing can unlock defences, while Anton Stach’s ball-carrying adds a dynamic threat.

Finally, Leeds must improve their presence in the box. Players like Lukas Nmecha and Noah Okafor are key to this, as their movement and runs will be vital in converting the team’s creative efforts into goals.

The defence has been solid, but turning this defensive strength into offensive results is the key to success in these crucial upcoming games.