Football can flip narratives faster than any sport, but Leeds United’s last eight days have been extraordinary even by Premier League standards. A week ago, Daniel Farke was under intense pressure, his future described by some as hanging by “a single thread” after a damaging run of performances. Now, remarkably, it is Leeds who have forced Chelsea into crisis mode, exposed Manchester City’s structural weaknesses and contributed to Liverpool’s internal implosion — all while dragging themselves out of the relegation zone.
Few would have predicted it. Leeds returned four points from fixtures against Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool — a haul that felt almost impossible seven days earlier. Yet the mood inside Elland Road has transformed not just because of results, but because of the manner of their response. Tactical bravery, resilience, and key contributions from new signings have reshaped the outlook of a club that looked lost in November.
The voices that defined Leeds’ spirit were those of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anton Stach, each emphasising the same thing: this is a side with growing belief and a manager who is adapting decisively.
Calvert-Lewin: “Four points from these games — we have to be pleased”
Speaking to LUTV after the 3–3 draw with Liverpool, Calvert-Lewin — who scored Leeds’ penalty — distilled the mood perfectly.
“We have come away with four points out of the three games. I think we have to be pleased with that, considering the opponents.” — Dominic Calvert-Lewin
He stressed the importance of using this run as a platform, not a destination.
“Everything is something to learn from. Everything is a lesson.” — Calvert-Lewin
Leeds supporters have learned plenty over the past week — most importantly that their team still has the resilience, personality and tactical range to challenge top sides.
Farke’s tactical shifts are shaping the revival
Against Manchester City, Leeds fought back from 2–0 down after Farke switched to a 3-5-2, exposing Guardiola’s recent discomfort against back-five systems before losing late.
Against Chelsea, they weathered the expected surge before scoring a decisive third goal.
Against Liverpool, Farke changed shape again — this time back to 4-3-3 — introducing three substitutes who all impacted the match: Wilfried Gnonto won the penalty, Brenden Aaronson assisted Anton Stach, and Ao Tanaka smashed in the stoppage-time equaliser that sent Elland Road into chaos.
This is no longer a side paralysed by late collapses. It is one discovering tools to fight back.
Anton Stach: “I got goosebumps all over my whole body”
Stach’s 75th-minute equaliser against Liverpool — his first Leeds goal — was a moment of pure catharsis.
“I got goosebumps all over my whole body. My first goal here at Elland Road — it felt unbelievable. The point is deserved.” — Anton Stach
He spoke candidly about the emotional weight of the moment.
“We’ve had unlucky games this season where we lost points late. Today we took one. Hopefully it gives us confidence.” — Stach
Confidence is building — and just in time. Injury-time goals against Fulham, Bournemouth and Man City cost Leeds four points earlier in the season. Few believed they would claw those back against Chelsea and Liverpool inside four days.
Analysis: Leeds finally have identity — and emotional buy-in
Farke’s sides are best when structure meets spontaneity — and Leeds are edging towards that blend. Earlier this season they were fragile late in games; now they are the ones landing decisive punches. Although some critics argue this run may be temporary, it’s worth questioning whether the shift in mentality is more lasting.
In our view, the biggest difference is trust. Players appear to trust the tactical changes, trust the substitutes, and trust their ability to claw back moments. That emotional buy-in is something Leeds have lacked for two seasons. When Calvert-Lewin and Stach speak about belief, it reflects a group moving towards a shared identity.
From my experience covering teams in relegation battles, momentum is not just about points — it’s about clarity. Leeds now look like a team that understands what they are trying to be.
Key Insights
- Leeds have taken four points from Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool.
- Farke’s tactical flexibility has energised the squad.
- Calvert-Lewin and Stach highlighted new confidence and resilience.
- Stach’s first Leeds goal symbolised the shift in momentum.
- Leeds have climbed out of the relegation zone ahead of favourable fixtures.
- Farke’s job security has stabilised after a turbulent month.
What’s Next?
Leeds face Brentford, Crystal Palace and Sunderland — fixtures that now look far more winnable given the team’s revived confidence. The club ends 2025 with renewed optimism and, crucially, a manager who has earned breathing space.
👉 Leeds fans — is this the turning point, or do you need more evidence before believing?
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