Leeds United secures EPL promotion but faces coaching change debate

'The Leeds era' protagonist Leeds United has confirmed its promotion to the English Premier League (EPL) after two years. However, suddenly claims of 'coaching change' have emerged from some corners.

On the 22nd (Korea time), Leeds crushed Stoke City 6-0 in a home match held at Elland Road in Leeds, England, during the 44th round of the 2024-2025 English Championship (second division). With this victory, Leeds recorded 27 wins, 13 draws, and 4 losses (94 points), securing at least second place. They obtained the direct promotion ticket to the EPL.

The Championship is a league in which 24 teams compete. The 1st and 2nd places automatically qualify for EPL promotion. The teams ranked 3rd to 6th compete for the remaining promotion ticket through playoffs. Leeds entered the playoffs in 3rd place last season but was frustrated at the threshold of promotion after losing 0-1 to Southampton in the final.

This season, Leeds has completely changed. In the early season, they recorded 7 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss in 13 matches, showcasing consistent performance that led them to be evaluated as the top candidate for promotion. They also maintained a solid record, continuing an unbeaten streak in 17 matches (12 wins and 5 draws). Notably, they displayed overwhelming scoring power, recording 89 goals by the 44th round, 22 goals more than second-place Norwich, which scored 67 goals.

Having various attacking resources capable of scoring is an advantage for Leeds. Joel Piroe topped the scoring chart with 19 goals, while Daniel James added 12 goals, and both Brenden Aaronson and Manor Solomon contributed 9 goals each. Additionally, the quick and precise attacking development centered around Japanese national team player Ao Tanaka is expected to work well in the EPL.

Leeds expressed excitement through their official website, stating, "We are going back to the EPL. Coach Daniel Farke and the team have written a new page in Leeds history. The goal is not just survival but long-term EPL retention."

Analysts suggest that the leadership of Coach Farke played a significant role in this promotion. Immediately after losing in the playoffs last season, he did not cancel the promotion party and instead shared the pain with the players at a scheduled restaurant, urging them to start anew. At that meeting, the coach said, "Let’s go back now and prepare for the next promotion."

Captain Lee-Seung Ampadu played a crucial role in uniting the team. He requested the club to provide the same bonus to all players who had played at least one match, breaking down the barriers between starters and non-starters. Although some key players transferred, the remaining players united with the mindset of 'Leeds is my team'.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) evaluated, "While promotion teams in the EPL have struggled in recent seasons, Leeds may be an exception. The attacking power displayed this season could certainly be effective in the EPL."

Burnley, which also secured promotion alongside Leeds, has also recorded 94 points. However, they are currently in first place due to a better goal difference than Leeds. The match between the two teams has already concluded. The final champion will be determined based on the results of the remaining two matches.

Gabriel Agbonlahor, a former player from Aston Villa, expressed doubts about Coach Daniel Farke’s chances of surviving in the EPL. As soon as Leeds was promoted, his abilities came into question.

Agbonlahor appeared on British 'Talksport' and made a shocking statement: "While it is commendable that Coach Farke promoted Leeds to the top tier, the EPL is a harsh stage. Leeds may need to consider a coaching change for the next season."

He added, "Coach Farke's EPL record stands at 49 matches with 6 wins, 8 draws, and 35 losses, with 101 goals conceded and only 31 scored. Looking at these numbers, you can understand why consideration for a coaching change should be on the table."

Ally McCoist, a legend of the Scottish Rangers, also pointed out the reality, saying, "I understand that statement. Most teams coming up from the Championship have been relegated immediately."

In contrast, Jermaine Beckford, a former Leeds player, demonstrated a different stance. He argued, "Leeds won 28 matches and secured promotion under Coach Bielsa. This season, under Coach Farke, Leeds has 27 wins with two matches remaining. Just as Bielsa was given an opportunity, Farke should be afforded the same."

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