Leeds cruise past SC Verl: Daniel Farke faces tough choices and squad gaps exposed in pre-season rout

Leeds United secured an emphatic 4-1 victory over SC Verl in their second pre-season outing, marking their first win as preparations ramp up for the upcoming campaign. The match, played over 120 minutes, saw Leeds take control early, with Joel Piroe netting twice in the opening half, the second from the penalty spot. Wilfried Gnonto and recent signing Lukas Nmecha added their names to the scoresheet before Verl managed a late consolation, with Jonas Arweiler rounding Karl Darlow in the 119th minute.

Manager Daniel Farke used the friendly to experiment with tactical setups, shifting from a 4-3-3 used against Manchester United to last season’s 4-2-3-1 formation. Farke emphasized the importance of adaptability, telling Mail Sport, “We are flexible and want to be flexible. I’m not addicted to base formations. I’m more addicted to principles.” He highlighted the need for different approaches depending on the opponent, noting, “When you travel to Man City or to Arsenal or Liverpool, those games will be different… so we need different options.”

Throughout the match, Farke was heard urging midfielders Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff to maintain close proximity, indicating his desire for a solid double pivot. This encounter provided early signs of how Leeds might organize themselves when facing teams where they expect more possession, contrasting with their approach against higher-calibre opposition.

On the left wing, Farke rotated his options following the departure of Manor Solomon. Jack Harrison and Largie Ramazani both featured, with Harrison receiving significant direction from Farke and Ramazani showing promise despite lacking composure in front of goal. Wilfried Gnonto, who switched flanks later in the game, impressed by scoring with his left foot. Despite a bright start from these options, the left-wing position remains unsettled.

Transfer activity on the flanks remains uncertain. While Leeds are monitoring Feyenoord’s Igor Paixao, his representatives maintain he is currently in talks with Marseille. Leeds could turn their attention his way if those negotiations fail, as strengthening wide positions remains a priority.

Goalkeeper selection is another ongoing dilemma. Illan Meslier, Alex Cairns, and Karl Darlow each played 40 minutes, with both Meslier and Darlow making key saves. Cairns, however, fell afoul of new IFAB timekeeping rules, conceding a corner for holding the ball too long. Farke acknowledged the club’s intent to reinforce between the posts: “We have three really good goalkeepers who played but we will look at each and every position in order to strengthen the squad.”

Up front, Joel Piroe’s brace was encouraging, while Lukas Nmecha and Harry Gray also drew praise. However, with Patrick Bamford sidelined and Mateo Joseph seeking a transfer, Leeds’ need for another quality striker is evident. The club’s pursuit of Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz hit a wall after a £26 million bid was rejected, with Fulham valuing the player higher. Farke was clear about recruitment strategy: “It was always the plan to build the squad step-by-step. We are looking for enforcements and for players who make us better. That’s regardless of the situation with Mateo (Joseph) and Patrick (Bamford). Central defence and central midfield are sorted. All the other positions, we are still in the market.”

Leeds’ pre-season continues to offer clues about Farke’s evolving tactics and squad priorities as he prepares for the diverse challenges of the new season.