Leeds United lasted three seasons in the Premier League last time they were promoted. How many can they manage this time round?
Leeds United have been promoted to the Premier League after a whirlwind second season under Daniel Farke, recording 100 points and winning their final six games of the season.
But it wasn’t all easy. Burnley chased Leeds right until the end and before that six-game winning streak, Leeds United actually dropped down into 3rd place of the table following a 1-1 draw against Luton Town.
All’s well that ends well, though. Leeds United are ready to spend big this summer in a bid to finally stabilise themselves in the English top flight after two decades of instability. And the 49ers have a plan.
The Leeds United owners want a European finish in five years. And looking at how well teams like Brighton, Fulham, and Aston Villa among others have done since promotion, it’s certainly achievable.
Patrick Bamford says 49ers have given Leeds United more stability
There have been some changes behind the scenes at Elland Road already this summer. CEO Angus Kinnear has left Leeds United and football advisor Nick Hammond appears set to follow him. Adam Underwood has been made sporting director at Leeds United ahead of the summer.
Despite the changes, though, Patrick Bamford believes there’s more stability at Leeds United this time round than last time under Marcelo Bielsa. Speaking to CBS Sports Golazo, Bamford gave his verdict on the upcoming Premier League campaign.
He said: “I think that obviously last time round it was so long before, well since Leeds have been in the Premier League and everyone was desperate to keep us there for as long as possible. And I think now especially with the the ownership and the 49ers and the way they’ve kind of set things up, I think that they’re giving it a little bit more stability this time round which obviously only bodes well for the club itself.”
Paraag Marathe’s message to Leeds United fans after promotion
Chairman Paraag Marathe has become a well-liked figure among Leeds United fans. Marathe is backing Farke at Leeds United in what is a very popular decision, and he’s also insisted that Leeds can become a top, top team.
Speaking at the promotion parade Marathe said Leeds United can become a top European football team, saying: “I hope I never forget this moment, but this is the journey, and this is not the end. We are going to be one of the best clubs in Europe.”
This summer’s transfer business will dictate whether or not this promotion is actually the start of the journey for Leeds United. It’s all down to players and to Farke, and whether or not they can compete in an ever-competitive Premier League next time round.
