Leeds United changed their formation a few weeks ago after Daniel Farke sought a solution against Manchester City. The tactical switch went well as the Whites nearly mounted a second half comeback.
From 2-0 down, they pulled back to 2-2, but were unfortunately thwarted a late Phil Foden winner. The new shape coincided with a great run of form by the team; Leeds went six games unbeaten. The most impressive thing about these results was beating bigger clubs like Chelsea and Crystal Palace.
A lot of players have found their feet in this new system and are excelling; Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the biggest beneficiary, and is now on a serious goalscoring run. Brenden Aaronson has also been quietly influential for the Whites over the last few weeks, scoring some important goals.
Leeds United missed out on Nathan Ake
Daniel Farke mentioned that with this new shape, some players may be needed as specialists in the team. The switch to three defenders saw Jaka Bijol used in the first team, and Sebastiaan Bornauw being brought out of the wilderness to provide depth on the bench. A few games back, Joe Rodon picked up a nasty injury that sidelined him for some games, forcing Bornauw to step in – this meant there were no natural first team center backs on the bench.
Just a few weeks ago, reports emerged that the 49ers were prioritizing depth at the position. But the club have now missed the chance on Nathan Ake after Football Insider reported that Manchester City will not allow the Dutchman to leave this month.
Pep Guardiola needs the defender at the club after a long-term injury to Josko Gvardiol.
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49ers will be regretting missed opportunity
There is a short list of options available that can come in right now and immediately do a job in this Leeds backline. Nathan Ake might be out of the club’s range but adding depth in the defence is a priority.
And with reports suggesting that Sebastiaan Bornauw is looking for a way out of Elland Road, the 49ers must find a way to strengthen the position instead of losing players. Leeds have had a great start to the year, despite losing on Wednesday, and they need to continue their fight.
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