Leeds United learnt a hard lesson in Saturday’s defeat to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. The game brought the fans back to Earth after a scintillating start following the Everton win.
Before the game, Daniel Farke said his team would continue to play the way they know. And for the first half hour they held their own, before conceding, and everything just went downhill from there. After the game, Farke said the Gunners were just the better side.
”Arsenal deserved to win the game with a proper goal difference. Not sure if it was 5-0. Five shots on target and scored from them all.
”When a team like Arsenal are on it, one of best in Europe, then it’s always difficult.
”Annoying how we conceded the goals. Wish for a bit more awareness. Two goals in added time. Underestimated their counter pressing.
”Penalty looked a bit soft. When they are on it and effective, it’s always difficult. Not a season defining game. They deserved to win that game. Won’t over analyse this game too much.”
The quality proved to be too much at the Emirates stadium
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United midfielders?
Forest close in on Leeds United target
Credit: Imago
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported on Saturday that Leeds were still in the race to sign Strasbourg winger Dilane Bakwa. The Whites were ready to submit a £30million offer for the Ligue 1 star.
But it looks like the situation has changed, Tavolieri is now reporting that Nottingham Forest are back in the race after seeing their previous bid rejected.
🔴🌳 Nottingham Forest remains close to Dilane Bakwa and is fighting to close the gap Leeds United has with Racing Strasbourg. Things will change in the coming hours… More to follow 🔜 #NFFC #LUFC https://t.co/NOQSS8RT07 pic.twitter.com/RH5DFgolda
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) August 23, 2025
A deal for the 22-year old could be completed before the transfer deadline next monday.
Latest exit could open door for move
With reports of Largie Ramazani on his way to Spain after being left out of the squad to face Arsenal, that opens the door for another attacker to be added to the squad. Whether Leeds are ambitious enough to sign the Strasbourg star is a whole other topic.
