The Athletic FC Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Are Leeds Ready for the Premier League?
Host: Ayo Akamolere
Guests: Beren Cross (Leeds United Correspondent), Phil Hay (Leeds Expert)
Release Date: April 22, 2025
1. Introduction to Leeds United’s Promotion
Leeds United has triumphantly secured automatic promotion to the Premier League after a two-year stint in the Championship. This achievement marks their return to the top flight, raising critical questions about their preparedness and long-term survival in the highly competitive league.
Ayo Akamolere opens the discussion by highlighting Leeds' seamless promotion, noting the decisive 6-0 victory over Stoke City:
"Leeds absolutely smashed Stoke. Burnley did the business with the minimum of fuss. Tough mates."
(03:05)
2. Lessons from Previous Premier League Experiences
The conversation delves into Leeds' past relegation from the Premier League and the lessons they've gleaned to avoid a repeat scenario. Beren Cross emphasizes the club's resilience and commitment to not take the easy path:
"Leeds never ever take the easy path when they can wade through hell. There's always a tripwire somewhere."
(04:00)
Phil Hay compares the current squad to Marcelo Bielsa's era, acknowledging the enhanced resources under current management:
"Fakha's resources are superior by some distance. It's a far more expensive squad, and as good as you're likely to get in this division."
(07:21)
3. Analysis of Manager Daniel Farker’s Performance
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Daniel Farker's management. Beren Cross praises Farker for maintaining squad harmony and achieving impressive points:
"Farker hasn't had to enhance players to the same degree that Bielsa did. He's nailed it this season."
(07:47)
Phil Hay defends Farker against criticisms by highlighting the strong financial backing and squad quality:
"Farker is incredibly well put together. There's harmony in the squad, and if people aren't getting on with the group, then there's probably something wrong with them."
(08:06)
4. Comparison: Farker at Norwich vs. Farker at Leeds
Ayo Akamolere poses a critical question comparing Farker's Premier League record with Norwich to his current role at Leeds:
"Daniel Farker has a points per game average of just 0.53 in the Premier League... What's different from Farker at Norwich to Farker at Leeds?"
(20:06)
Phil Hay responds by delineating the distinct contexts of Norwich and Leeds, suggesting that Leeds offers a more robust support system and resources:
"They are worlds apart in terms of the job that he's now got in his hands. Norwich teams were weak, and he never really got going again there."
(21:00)
5. Player Contributions and Leadership
The role of captain Ethan Ampadu is scrutinized, with Ayo Akamolere questioning his performance amidst injuries:
"Ethan's had a really difficult season with two serious knee injuries that have blown two holes in his campaign."
(28:32)
Beren Cross and Phil discuss Ampadu’s leadership qualities and his willingness to share bonuses to foster team unity:
"He said he wants it shared completely equally. That kind of act has gone a long way in the dressing room."
(29:01)
6. Tactical Adjustments for the Premier League
A core concern is how Leeds will adapt tactically to the Premier League's higher standards. Beren Cross suggests potential shifts to a more pragmatic, low-block strategy to ensure survival:
"I'm very much up for Leeds becoming a team that sits low, grinds out wins, and tries to stay in the Premier League."
(50:42)
Phil Hay echoes this sentiment, acknowledging Farker's need to implement more tactical flexibility:
"He has to make a lot more tactical tweaks in the Premier League because they aren't going to win as many games as they did this season."
(50:41)
7. Financial Implications and Transfer Market Strategy
The podcast addresses the financial strain of sustaining Premier League status and the necessity for strategic investments. Beren Cross points out the Championship's financial pitfalls and the importance of prudent spending:
"Leeds will have to spend on this squad. There’s no question they need to push their transfer market aggressively."
(44:12)
Discussions also touch on the planned redevelopment of Elland Road, signaling long-term ambitions:
"Planning an application is expected to go in before the summer, with spades in the ground shortly after."
(46:36)
8. Fan Connection and Expectations
The connection between the fans and the management remains a nuanced topic. Beren Cross notes that while some fans may remain skeptical until proven in the Premier League, overall support is likely to grow:
"Proper connection isn’t seen yet. It might improve once they establish themselves in the Premier League."
(16:42)
Ayo Akamolere raises concerns about upcoming season ticket price increases and their reception among fans:
"Leeds have announced a 14% ticket price increase for the 2025-26 season. How has that gone down with the fans?"
(47:37)
Beren Cross responds by explaining the necessity of these increases for the club's ambitions:
"Most people still see it as fairly good value. They need to shoulder their part of the burden to see Leeds go forward."
(48:27)
9. Youth Development and Future Prospects
Highlighting the future, the podcast touches upon emerging talents like Harry Gray, whose potential could be pivotal:
"Harry Gray is an exciting prospect. At 17, if he fulfills his potential, he could be a significant asset next season."
(35:36)
Beren Cross underscores the importance of nurturing young talent to sustain Premier League competitiveness:
"Harry has the best left foot I've ever seen. If he continues to develop, he could be super big."
(37:02)
10. Comparisons with Other Promoted Teams
Finally, the discussion compares Leeds with other recently promoted teams like Burnley, Leicester, and Ipswich, analyzing their respective strengths and challenges in the Premier League:
"Leeds and Burnley are looking to stay up, but it ultimately depends on their transfer strategies and tactical executions."
(50:41)
Beren Cross adds that while none of the promoted teams are inherently stronger than the relegated ones, strategic spending and adaptability will determine their success:
"It remains to be seen how far the transfer boat can go. Leeds need to invest wisely to maintain Premier League status."
(49:23)
Conclusion and Outlook
The episode concludes with a balanced outlook on Leeds United’s prospects in the Premier League. While optimism surrounds their promotion and squad strength, significant challenges loom in terms of financial sustainability, tactical adaptability, and maintaining team cohesion. The expertise provided by Beren Cross and Phil Hay offers a nuanced perspective, emphasizing that Leeds' success will hinge on strategic decisions in the upcoming season.
Ayo Akamolere wraps up by acknowledging the complexities ahead and the critical need for stability:
"Leeds heading into the Premier League is the big one, Baron. Let’s see if they can make a good go of it."
(39:51)
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- “Leeds absolutely smashed Stoke. Burnley did the business with the minimum of fuss.” – Ayo Akamolere (03:05)
- “Leeds never ever take the easy path when they can wade through hell.” – Beren Cross (04:00)
- “Farker hasn't had to enhance players to the same degree that Bielsa did. He's nailed it this season.” – Beren Cross (07:47)
- “They are worlds apart in terms of the job that he's now got in his hands.” – Phil Hay (21:00)
- “He wants it shared completely equally.” – Ethan Ampadu (29:01)
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from "Are Leeds ready for the Premier League?" episode of The Athletic FC Podcast. It offers an in-depth look into Leeds United’s current standing, managerial strategies, player dynamics, and future aspirations, providing valuable insights for both avid listeners and new readers.