Sky Sports: Leeds make Daniel Farke sack decision ahead of Chelsea clash

Leeds United’s showdown with Chelsea later on today could prove pivotal for Daniel Farke’s future, with Sky Sports reporting that the club’s hierarchy are growing increasingly concerned about the team’s form. According to reporter Rob Dorsett, Leeds bosses are prepared to hold “serious” internal discussions if the club’s losing run continues, placing huge pressure on Farke heading into a defining week at Elland Road.

The German head coach is overseeing a deeply concerning slump, with Leeds suffering six defeats in their last seven Premier League matches, including a narrow 3–2 loss to Manchester City at the weekend. The 49-year-old now faces Chelsea and Liverpool in back-to-back fixtures — two games that may determine whether he survives in the job.

Dorsett’s latest update highlights growing anxiety among the 49ers ownership group. Leeds have now lost four straight matches, sinking toward the relegation zone after what had been a promising start to life back in the top flight.

A defeat to Chelsea — which would extend the run to five — is expected to trigger immediate discussions regarding Farke’s position. Leeds are desperate to avoid an instant return to the Championship, something no promoted side has suffered since 2022–23.

There is, however, a sliver of optimism inside Elland Road. Club officials were encouraged by Leeds’ spirited second-half showing against Manchester City, where a tactical adjustment helped them fight back into contention.

But encouraging moments won’t be enough. Points are now essential.

Should Farke be dismissed, Sky Sports and multiple outlets suggest that Leeds already have a preferred candidate: former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil.

The 42-year-old has been without a club since leaving Molineux but remains highly regarded for his work in stabilising Wolves and previously guiding Bournemouth to safety. Leeds view him as a coach with tactical pragmatism, Premier League know-how and experience in relegation battles.

Other free-agent options are also being considered, including Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou, both of whom have been linked to the job in recent weeks. Former RB Leipzig interim boss Zsolt Lőw is another name that has emerged.

The pattern is clear: the hierarchy want a manager with Premier League experience capable of steadying the team immediately.

While O’Neil is admired, many pundits — including those cited in local reports — believe Brendan Rodgers is the standout choice.

Rodgers: won multiple titles at Celtic, came within a whisker of winning the Premier League with Liverpool, delivered an FA Cup during his successful spell at Leicester City and is trusted to implement a clear structure quickly

His recent spell in Scotland ended awkwardly, but his Premier League track record remains strong. Should Leeds be willing to meet his financial demands, Rodgers represents a manager capable of stabilising the squad and immediately improving performances.

From our analysis of Leeds’ current shortcomings — inconsistency in structure, an inability to manage transitions and lapses in concentration — Rodgers’ tactical clarity and man-management offer the qualities Leeds currently lack.

Leeds’ biggest issue under Farke has been the sudden collapse in defensive reliability. After looking organised early in the season, they’ve conceded too many soft goals and repeatedly given opponents momentum in key moments.

Add to that the struggles in ball progression and the lack of solutions against high-pressing sides, and the pattern becomes worrying.

Today’s match with Chelsea is therefore more than a fixture — it is a test of conviction. A competitive performance buys time. Another collapse almost certainly forces action.

Leeds host Chelsea in a match that may decide the future of Daniel Farke. With Liverpool looming next, the club’s margin for error has vanished.

👉 Should Leeds sack Farke now — or give him until after the Liverpool match?