When Leeds United first got promoted to the Premier League, nobody expected the newly promoted teams to bounce right off the start and make any kind of impact. But, that does not seem to be the case for Bielsa’s Leeds United. The club from Yorkshire has absolutely blitzed the Premier League on their arrival after nearly 16 years.
And even though it has only been four games, they seem like a team set to stay and are not worried about a survival fight. So what is it that makes this team special? And how are they poised for the future?
For starters, what makes this Leeds team unique, is a combination of factors. First, their manager Marcelo Bielsa is a very smart manager capable of mixing ambition with pragmatism. He has so far adjusted to the demands and strength of the Premier League oppositions. But, at the same time, he had imprinted his pressing counter-attacking front foot style of play in the league.
Next, the players’ quality which was largely unknown for non-Leeds fans. There were doubts over whether making the step up from Championship would be a tough task, but up until now, they have come good and strong. Having leaders in the side who can motivate and instil belief in the players cannot be underestimated. And for that reason, the likes of captain Cooper, Ayling, Dallas and Allioski are assets to The Whites when the going gets tough.
Leeds have been tipped as top half and even Europa league hopefuls when the teams entered the international break. Although the optimistic football supporters would hope for that, reality kicks in. Which means that Leeds do have chinks in their armour that could be exploited when all teams get their chemistry and playing styles sorted.
Over the course of the season, attacking football always carries a risk of burnout and that is something which could affect Bielsa’s men in the longer run. But regardless, their focus remains survival. And with a great start of 7 points in 4 games that includes two wins as well, Leeds are well on their way to achieving that and showing that they truly belong here in the English top-flight.
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