Thierry Henry’s Passionate Case for Wilfried Gnonto as Leeds’ Most Underrated Star
Thierry Henry, the Arsenal legend and footballing icon, didn’t mince words when asked to pinpoint the most underrated player in Leeds United’s squad. Without hesitation, he named Wilfried Gnonto, the 21-year-old Italian winger who has been turning heads with his explosive performances. Henry’s passionate argument for Gnonto’s brilliance encapsulates why the young star deserves far more recognition.
Speaking on a recent punditry segment, Henry lauded Gnonto’s “electrifying” impact, emphasizing his ability to change games in an instant. “He’s got everything—pace, dribbling, vision, and a knack for goals,” Henry declared. “People don’t talk about him enough, but he’s a proper game-changer.” Gnonto’s 2024/25 Championship season backs this up: nine goals and six assists in limited starts, surpassing 100 appearances for Leeds by January 2025. His pivotal role in Leeds’ promotion, including a title-clinching goal against Plymouth, underscores his clutch mentality.
Henry’s argument hinges on Gnonto’s versatility and tenacity. Whether cutting in from the wings or thriving as a No. 10, as seen in his dynamic 45-minute cameo against QPR, Gnonto disrupts defenses with 4.3 take-ons per 90 minutes—second only to Manor Solomon in the squad. “He’s fearless,” Henry noted. “He’ll take on anyone, and that’s rare.” Off the pitch, Gnonto’s leadership shines, as evidenced by his plea for teammate Josuha Guilavogui to stay, highlighting his role as a unifying force.
Yet, Henry passionately argued that Gnonto’s lack of consistent starts under Daniel Farke—only 20 in the Championship this season—masks his true potential. “If he played every week, we’d be talking about him as a top Premier League talent,” Henry insisted. Despite interest from clubs like Everton and Saudi sides, Gnonto’s new contract until 2028 shows his commitment to Leeds.
Henry’s unwavering endorsement sums it all: Gnonto is a diamond in the rough, undervalued but undeniable. As Leeds prepare for the Premier League, the stage is set for Gnonto to prove Henry right and silence the doubters
