Leeds owners in attendance to witness the championship title win and they have given there brutal verdict on Daniel Farke and Leeds performance
On a dramatic final day at Home Park, Leeds United clinched the 2025 EFL Championship title with a 2-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle, sealed by Manor Solomon’s stoppage-time winner. The triumph, which saw Leeds amass a historic 100 points, was witnessed by key figures from the club’s ownership group, 49ers Enterprises, including chairman Paraag Marathe. The scenes of jubilation among players and fans contrasted sharply with the somber mood surrounding manager Daniel Farke, as the owners reportedly harbor serious reservations about his future, despite the club’s return to the Premier League.
The match itself was a microcosm of Leeds’ season—resilient, dominant, yet fraught with tension. Trailing after Sam Byram’s own goal, Leeds equalized through Wilfried Gnonto before Solomon’s late heroics secured the title on goal difference over Burnley. Farke, who sat alone in the dugout as his players celebrated, has been lauded for orchestrating one of the most dominant Championship campaigns in Leeds’ history, averaging 2.14 points per game—a record unmatched since 1981-82. His tactical acumen and calm demeanor under pressure earned praise from players and staff, with senior sources noting his ability to handle the intense scrutiny of managing a “one-club city” like Leeds.
However, the 49ers Enterprises’ presence at the title-clinching match was not just to celebrate. Reports indicate that the American ownership group, who never intended to own a Championship club, is already planning for the Premier League. Their brutal verdict on Farke centers on his dismal Premier League record with Norwich City, where he won just six of 49 top-flight matches, averaging 0.53 points per game—one of the worst in the competition’s history. Both Norwich campaigns under Farke ended in relegation, raising concerns about his ability to ensure Leeds’ survival in the top flight, especially given the £100m-plus investment needed to compete.
The owners’ doubts have sparked speculation about Farke’s future, with sources suggesting Gretar Steinsson, now technical director for 49ers Enterprises, has held talks with managerial candidates across Europe. While no final decision has been made, the lack of sentiment in professional sport means Farke’s third Championship promotion may not guarantee his job. Leeds fans, polled by Leeds Live, overwhelmingly back Farke, with over 4,900 supporters arguing that sacking him would be “incredibly harsh” after delivering promotion and a title. Former Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson even claimed Farke is “one million per cent” safe, citing Marathe’s 2023 comments praising him as one of Europe’s best coaches.
Yet, the financial realities of the Premier League loom large. Leeds’ two-year Championship stint has limited their profit and sustainability calculations, necessitating player sales to fund squad improvements. Farke’s knack for shrewd signings like Jayden Bogle and Ao Tanaka offers hope, but the owners’ pragmatic approach suggests they may opt for a manager with a stronger top-flight pedigree. As Leeds prepare for an open-top bus parade, the contrast between the fans’ euphoria and the owners’ cold calculus underscores the ruthless nature of modern football.
