Lee Bowyer shares what he has heard about Daniel Farke exit at Leeds United

Daniel Farke’s once-uncertain tenure at Leeds United has finally stabilised in the Premier League.

The German coach has overseen an impressive turnaround, guiding Leeds to a seven-match unbeaten run and opening up an eight-point cushion above the relegation zone after 20 games.

That position marks a sharp contrast to the mood just a few weeks earlier, when Leeds went four matches without a win and sections of the fanbase were calling for Farke’s dismissal.

Despite leading the club to the Championship title last season, Farke faced intense scrutiny over whether he was capable of succeeding in the top flight.

His previous Premier League struggles with Norwich City had left supporters unconvinced, but Leeds’ decision to stick with him is now being vindicated.

Former Leeds midfielder Lee Bowyer has since revealed that Farke’s future was far from secure during the summer.

Speaking on talkSPORT on 6 December, Bowyer admitted he believed the 49-year-old might not even be given the opportunity to lead the Whites in the Premier League.

“I’m pleased for Farke more than anything,” Bowyer said. “There was talk in the summer that he wasn’t good enough for the Premier League.

I like the way he’s adapted. Some managers refuse to change, but he hasn’t — and it’s clearly paying off.”

Questions surrounding Farke’s credentials have followed him throughout his career, particularly due to Norwich’s 20th-place finish in 2019–20 and his dismissal early in the 2021–22 season after just one win. However, his willingness to evolve tactically has been crucial at Leeds.

The switch to a 3-5-2 formation has transformed both performances and atmosphere at Elland Road. Leeds’ 3-1 victory over Chelsea on 3 December sparked their current run of form, and talk of a managerial change has since faded into the background.

Leeds now travel to Newcastle on Wednesday aiming to stretch their advantage over the relegation zone to 11 points. In hindsight, the season could have looked very different had the club opted to part ways with Farke in the summer.

Managers linked with replacing Daniel Farke

Speculation over Farke’s position inevitably led to alternative names being discussed, both during the off-season and earlier in the campaign.

Carlos Corberán was one of the managers linked with the role, but despite his Championship success, he has struggled since taking charge at Valencia, with the Spanish side currently sitting 18th and facing a potential relegation battle.

Brendan Rodgers was also mentioned as a possible replacement. However, his shock resignation from Celtic in October underlined just how divisive he can be in high-pressure environments.

In the end, retaining Farke has proven to be a decisive call. It may well stand as the best decision chairman Paraag Marathe has made since assuming the role in July 2023.

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