adminLeeds United almost hired World Cup winner before Daniel Farke, he’s become available this month
In the summer of 2023, Leeds United opted for what many saw as a sensible, if not spectacular, appointment in Daniel Farke. With two Championship titles already on his CV, the German seemed a reliable choice — and ultimately, he delivered.
Two years after taking the job, Farke guided Leeds to another Championship crown, his third. But since returning to the Premier League, the situation has begun to feel all too familiar for him. In his previous stint at Norwich, he won just six of 49 Premier League matches. Now at Leeds, he has managed three victories in 12 top-flight games, and a run of five defeats from six has put his position under scrutiny. LeedsUnited.News claims the 49ers ownership group are assessing whether to dismiss Farke, but are wary of making a rash move. For the moment, he is expected to be in charge when Leeds travel to Manchester City.
Things, however, might have gone differently. A World Cup-winning manager was eager to take charge following Jesse Marsch’s departure and resurfaced as a leading candidate before Leeds ultimately went with Farke.
Patrick Vieira now on the market after Genoa exit
Vieira was heavily linked with the Leeds vacancy in 2023, with reports suggesting he viewed the job with interest even while still at Crystal Palace.
Now, he is unattached. Genoa dismissed him at the start of the month despite his reasonable record last season — eight wins, nine defeats from 26 matches. This campaign unravelled quickly: six losses and three draws from nine league fixtures, although three of those defeats came against Lazio, Juventus, and reigning champions Napoli. Even two Coppa Italia victories could not save him, and his dismissal — arguably harsh — leaves him seeking his next opportunity.
Jack Harrison would welcome Vieira’s arrival
Vieira already has admirers within the 49ers hierarchy, having been close to the job following Sam Allardyce’s exit. His spell at MLS powerhouse New York City FC, where he coached stars like Andrea Pirlo, David Villa, Frank Lampard — and a young Jack Harrison — likely contributed to that appeal. Harrison once said: “It was a real honour to play with those three and be coached by Vieira. I will always be grateful for that.”
Vieira’s availability, Premier League pedigree, stature, and pragmatic, defensively-minded approach could make him an enticing option if Leeds decide to move on from Farke.
At present, Brendan Rodgers is viewed as a leading contender, with Vieira also in the conversation. Sam Allardyce has even suggested that another former Premier League midfield icon, Steven Gerrard, could be in the frame.
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