Despite successfully guiding Leeds United back to the Premier League, manager Daniel Farke`s job security is reportedly facing scrutiny just hours after the club`s promotion was confirmed.
The German coach has now achieved a hat-trick of promotions to England`s top flight, having previously led Norwich City there in both 2019 and 2021.
However, Farke now needs to convince the club`s US-based ownership group, 49ers Enterprises, that he is the appropriate manager to take the team forward in the Premier League next season.
The Leeds hierarchy has not yet made a final decision or formally identified alternative candidates, and any move to dismiss a successful manager would likely provoke significant criticism.
Nonetheless, Farke has faced some discontent among sections of the Elland Road support this season, stemming from concerns over his team`s playing style, substitution choices, and, until recently, his insistence on sticking with goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Farke took charge of Leeds following their relegation in 2023, leading them to the playoff final in his first season, where they were defeated by Southampton.
The owners are reportedly concerned about Farke`s previous track record in the Premier League during his time at Norwich.
With Norwich, Farke oversaw a campaign that ended with the team finishing bottom in 2020. After achieving immediate promotion back, he was dismissed in November 2021 after the team managed to collect only five points from their first 11 league matches. His overall Premier League win rate with Norwich stood at a low 12% (6 wins, 8 draws, 35 defeats from 49 games, with 31 goals scored and 101 conceded).
This history has reportedly prompted the club to consider alternative managerial options, although no definitive decision has been reached.
The situation is further complicated by the clear support shown by fans for Farke following the promotion, with supporters chanting his name outside Elland Road as he celebrated the achievement.
Leeds could still potentially reach 100 points in the current season, currently sitting on 94 with two games left to play.
Should Farke be replaced, potential candidates reportedly linked with the role include Carlos Corberan, a former assistant under Marcelo Bielsa who has had successful spells managing Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich Albion in England. Steven Gerrard, Patrick Vieira, and even the high-profile Jose Mourinho have also been mentioned in connection with the position.
