Work has begun at Leeds United as the club prepare for their return to the top flight. The club are still working on few more additions as they get the squad right for next season.
Leeds have already brought in four new faces to the squad. Depth and quality in multiple positions have now seen the team have a much fresher look. Lukas Nmecha brings in some competition for Joel Piroe, while Gabriel Gudmundsson takes the place of Junior Firpo who left the club as a free agent.
The club started preparations this week, with players undergoing fitness tests before ramping up training. Leeds will depart to play their first pre season friendly against Manchester United this weekend. Many expect some names to be dropped from the travelling squad, as some players figure out their futures.
QUIZ: Can you name the Leeds game these 10 goal celebrations are from?
[freshpress-quiz id=”32633″]
Leeds United preparations in full flow
Credit: LUFC Twitter/X
The players are back and raring to go. Almost every player in the team has reported, except three players who were on international duty this past month. Wilfried Gnonto and Mateo Joseph participated in the Euros, while Brenden Aaronson played in the Gold Cup for the USA.
Patrick Bamford gave some insight into how the preparations are going:
“You can do as much as you want over the off season but it’s different when you are in proper training with the group. But it’s good. It’s good to be back.”
“Maybe 25 years ago it was a full on six week break.
“But now I think because the level is so high and you are kind of always pushing for your place and stuff, everyone tries to keep as fit as possible and also if you don’t you pay for it when you come back so it’s worthwhile doing it.”
Manchester United to miss key names for friendly
Leeds face Manchester United in Stockholm on Saturday, but the Red Devils will not be at full strength.
Rashford, Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia have been left out as they have been instructed to find new clubs. Ruben Amorim will also be without Andre Onana and Lisandro Martinez who are injured, as well as Joshua Zirkzee, who did not travel.
What should fans expect from pre-season?
Quite frankly, intensity. From minute one, the fans have to see how the team do against Premier League level opposition. No matter if it is pre season. It gives insight into how the team can tailor their style to adapt to the division down the line. Daniel Farke and the technical team have a huge job on their hands.
