Since adopting a 3-5-2 formation, Leeds United has made significant strides in the Premier League, only trailing behind eight other clubs in terms of points accrued.
The journey for Leeds upon their return to the Premier League has been exhilarating, and their current form suggests they have a strong chance of avoiding relegation and solidifying their position in the top tier of English football.
Initially this season, manager Daniel Farke grappled with aligning the team’s offensive and defensive tactics. The first 12 matches yielded a mere 11 points, as Leeds frequently deployed a 4-3-3 formation that left their defense exposed.
Facing pressure with the club sitting in the relegation zone, Farke made a tactical shift to 3-5-2 during a challenging match against Manchester City in November. Although the game ended in heartbreak with a last-minute goal from Phil Foden, the match showcased a competitive spirit that had been missing in earlier outings.
Since implementing this new formation, Farke has noticed substantial improvements. Leeds has embarked on a seven-match unbeaten run in the Premier League, marking their longest streak without defeat in the league since 2001, with their recent draw against Manchester United further cementing their resilience.
A key player in this resurgence has been striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has netted seven goals in his last eight appearances, making a significant contribution to the team’s newfound scoring ability.
Currently, Leeds sits in 16th place in the Premier League, holding an eight-point cushion above West Ham, ensuring a safer distance from the relegation trapdoor.
Formation Flexibility: A Key to Success
Last season in the Championship, Farke predominantly utilized a 4-2-3-1 setup but recognized the need for flexibility in the Premier League. “When we were winning most games last season, we did not change our base formation much,” Farke explained. “The top teams in Europe and the Premier League always play the same formation, but you have to bridge this gap of individual quality; you have to be more adaptable.”
Farke’s acknowledgment of the Premier League’s demands led to extensive training in the three-man formation, indicating an awareness of how crucial tactical adaptability can be in a competitive environment.
Projecting Success Based on Current Trajectory
Based on their performance metrics, Leeds is on track to finish the season with approximately 42 points, a tally that would likely secure their place in the Premier League for the following season.
To understand the impact of Leeds’ tactical shift to the 3-5-2 formation, one only needs to look at the Premier League standings since the change, which paints a picture of their remarkable resurgence.
In summary, Leeds United’s tactical evolution under Daniel Farke has proven essential for their survival and competitiveness in the Premier League this season. With a steadfast formation and key players stepping up, Leeds appears to be regaining its footing in top-flight football, showcasing that adaptability can indeed lead to success on the pitch.
