The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 21st October) Pressure Mounts on Farke as Odds Topple
Good Morning. It's Tuesday 21st October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Pressure Mounts on Farke as odds topple
Daniel Farke’s position at Leeds United appears increasingly precarious after bookmakers slashed his odds of being the next Premier League manager to lose his job from 8/1 to 4/1. The dramatic shift reflects growing uncertainty surrounding the German coach’s future as his team struggles to find consistent form. Averaging just a point per game, Leeds are hovering above the relegation zone—a fragile cushion that could disappear with another poor result. Friday night’s clash against West Ham now looms as a potential turning point, with supporters and pundits alike questioning whether Farke can inspire a much-needed revival.
Wolves boss Vitor Pereira remains the only manager under greater pressure, at least according to the bookmakers. His side sits anchored to the bottom of the table with just two points from their opening fixtures, yet a newly signed three‑year contract makes his immediate dismissal financially complicated. Leeds, by contrast, would face a less expensive decision should their hierarchy decide change is required.
With fan frustration rising and the season beginning to take shape, the next few matches could prove decisive for Farke’s tenure. Football, as ever, is a results business—and unless Leeds start collecting more than a point a game, the odds may soon catch up with reality. Ange Postecoglou, Gareth Southgate, Kjetil Knutsen and Marco Silva make up a short list of possible replacements.
Leeds drop further into danger zone after Brentford win London derby
Brentford’s 2-0 win at West Ham has sent ripples beyond East London, leaving Leeds United in yet more trouble near the foot of the Premier League table. The result not only dented West Ham’s confidence but tightened the noose around Leeds, who now find themselves perilously close to the trapdoor, with only Burnley separating them from the relegation zone. For Daniel Farke’s side, Friday’s home clash with West Ham is not merely an opportunity to steady the ship—it's his last chance saloon.
At Turf Moor last weekend, Leeds inability to turn pressure into goals was laid bare once more, leaving supporters restless and uncertain where salvation might come from. Defensive lapses continue to undo spells of promise, leaving Leeds with one win in eight from all competitions. When you're fighting for your lives at the wrong end of the table, performances are no longer judged by style or ambition, but by survival instinct.
If Leeds cannot find a way to overcome West Ham on home soil, questions about their Premier League future will only grow louder. They may be without the services of James, Okafor and Gnonto, but questions regarding Daniel Farke's tactical nous, use of substitutions and refusal to employ a set-piece coach continue to cost his side dear.
Leeds seek verbal agreement on Mali star
Leeds are reportedly poised to make an official bid for Maccabi Tel Aviv's promising defensive midfielder, Issouf Sissokho, signaling an intent to bolster their midfield options this winter. According to AfricaFoot, the Whites have initiated discussions to secure the 23-year-old Malian talent, with an official offer expected "in the coming weeks" and a "verbal agreement between the two parties" potentially on the horizon.
Sissokho, known for his robust tackling, precise passing, powerful long shots, and incisive through balls, primarily operates in a defensive midfield role. His skillset aligns perfectly with the demands of a high-intensity league, making him an attractive prospect for Leeds. While he has yet to represent the senior Mali national team, Sissokho showcased his abilities at last year's Olympics, playing against Japan.
Having previously featured for Bordeaux in France before his move to the Israeli Premier League, he brings valuable European experience. With an estimated market value between €1.1 million and €1.7 million, Sissokho could represent a shrewd and affordable acquisition as Leeds look to strengthen their squad.