Godwin ObajeLeeds United’s Changing Lineup: An In-Depth Look at Their New Best XI
As the summer transfer window of 2025 draws to a close, Leeds United fans are witnessing a dramatic reshaping of their squad. Under the guidance of manager Daniel Farke, the club has made several key signings to strengthen their squad, resulting in a new best XI that reflects a blend of youth, experience, and tactical flexibility. With the acquisition of Sweden international left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson, alongside other notable additions, Leeds are positioning themselves for an exciting future. Here, we delve into the key players and tactics that could define Leeds United’s 2025/26 season.
A Summer of Transformation
Leeds United have been active in the transfer market this summer, making several high-profile signings that have already begun to influence the team’s structure. In addition to Gabriel Gudmundsson, the club has secured the services of Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol, and Sebastiaan Bornauw. These signings come on the back of a tumultuous season that saw the club face challenges both on and off the pitch, including a disappointing finish in the Championship following their relegation from the Premier League.
The arrival of these players signals Leeds’ intention to return to the top tier and re-establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with. While the departures of key figures like Junior Firpo—who left after his contract expired—could have left a void, the new recruits appear to be filling those gaps effectively.
This period of transition has also seen Leeds revamp their tactical approach, with Daniel Farke making it clear that he intends to implement a system that is both defensively solid and creatively fluid. The club’s summer activity reflects a clear intent to build for the future, with a blend of experienced internationals and promising young talents now featuring in the squad.
Gabriel Gudmundsson: The £10 Million Full-Back
The signing of Gabriel Gudmundsson for £10 million from French side Lille has been one of the headline moves of Leeds’ summer. Gudmundsson’s arrival fills the void left by Junior Firpo’s departure, and the Swedish international is expected to become the club’s first-choice left-back for the 2025/26 season.
At 25, Gudmundsson is already a seasoned professional, having established himself as a reliable presence in Ligue 1 over the past few seasons. His defensive capabilities, combined with his attacking contributions, make him a valuable addition to Farke’s squad. Gudmundsson’s pace, crossing ability, and defensive solidity are expected to complement the team’s overall tactical setup, which is likely to focus on quick transitions and wing-play.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively will be crucial in Leeds’ bid to regain their Premier League status. As Farke’s tactical system evolves, Gudmundsson could play a pivotal role in providing width and supporting the attack, particularly in an overlapping role on the left flank.
Lukas Nmecha: The Striker with an Eye for Goals
Lukas Nmecha’s arrival from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee is another significant move for Leeds United. The 24-year-old forward arrives with a solid pedigree, having enjoyed successful loan spells with various clubs, including Anderlecht in Belgium, where he impressed with his goal-scoring ability.
Nmecha’s addition provides competition for the striker position, with Leeds currently lacking a clinical forward who can consistently finish chances. His combination of pace, strength, and technical ability make him an ideal fit for Leeds’ attacking system, which will rely on quick transitions and direct play. Nmecha’s versatility—he can play both as a central striker or in a wider position—gives Farke added flexibility in his attacking options.
Given Leeds’ history of relying on dynamic and high-pressing forwards, Nmecha’s physicality and intelligent movement off the ball could make him a perfect fit in Farke’s system. His partnership with other attackers, such as Jack Harrison, will be crucial in providing the attacking impetus needed to secure promotion back to the Premier League.
Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw: Strengthening the Defence
At the heart of Leeds’ defence, Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw are two new arrivals who are expected to form a solid partnership alongside Joe Rodon. Both players bring much-needed depth and strength to a defence that has been inconsistent in recent seasons.
Bijol, a towering Slovenian international, joins from Italian club Salernitana. Known for his aerial dominance and no-nonsense defending, Bijol adds physicality and resilience to Leeds’ backline. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions will be vital in ensuring Leeds’ defence remains compact and organised throughout the season.
Sebastiaan Bornauw, who joins from Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg, offers a more ball-playing option in defence. The Belgian centre-back is comfortable with the ball at his feet and has the technical ability to build play from the back. His partnership with Rodon and Bijol will provide Leeds with both strength and composure in defence, offering a more balanced and versatile defensive unit.
With the competition for places now fierce, Farke has a wealth of options at centre-back, ensuring that Leeds’ defensive line remains solid and competitive throughout the season.
Jack Harrison: Back and Ready for Action
One of the most intriguing aspects of Leeds’ summer business is the return of Jack Harrison from his two-season-long loan spells at Premier League side Everton. Harrison has always been one of Leeds’ most dynamic and influential players, and his return adds another dimension to the team’s attack.
While Harrison’s future at the club is still uncertain, with speculation surrounding his long-term plans, his inclusion in pre-season training indicates that he will be a key part of the squad this season. His pace, dribbling ability, and creativity make him a threat on the wing, and he could form an exciting partnership with Nmecha and other attacking players.
Harrison’s work rate and ability to stretch defences will be crucial in Farke’s system, which is likely to focus on high pressing and quick counter-attacks. Whether he remains at Leeds beyond this season or moves on, his performances this term could play a significant role in the team’s success.
The New Leeds United Best XI
With these key signings in place, Daniel Farke now has a squad capable of mounting a serious challenge for promotion. The new-look best XI is likely to feature the following players:
GK: Karl Darlow – Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper, having been solid throughout last season. Darlow’s experience and shot-stopping ability will be crucial for the team’s defensive stability.
RB: Jayden Bogle – Bogle’s impressive performances last season have earned him the right-back spot, with new signing Bornauw also able to provide competition in this position.
CB: Joe Rodon – One of the standout performers in defence, Rodon is expected to continue his role as a key player at the heart of the backline.
CB: Jaka Bijol – The Slovenian international brings physicality and resilience to the defensive unit, providing much-needed strength in the air and in one-on-one duels.
LB: Gabriel Gudmundsson – The £10m signing is set to be the first-choice left-back, offering a mix of defensive solidity and attacking threat down the flank.
CM: Ethan Ampadu – The club captain and a key player in midfield, Ampadu will continue to be a key figure in controlling the tempo of the game and breaking up opposition attacks.
CM: Kalvin Phillips – Phillips’ ball-winning ability and distribution will be essential in Leeds’ midfield, helping to transition the ball quickly from defence to attack.
RM: Jack Harrison – Whether as a starter or an impact player, Harrison’s ability to provide width and deliver dangerous crosses will make him an important asset.
CAM: Luis Sinisterra – The Colombian winger, with his flair and creativity, is expected to play an integral role in orchestrating attacks from the central attacking midfield position.
LM: Willy Gnonto – Gnonto’s pace and dribbling ability will be key to stretching defences and providing service to the strikers.
CF: Lukas Nmecha – The dynamic forward is expected to lead the line, providing a clinical edge to Leeds’ attack and finishing off the chances created by the midfield and wingers.
Bench Depth and Future Signings
Leeds United’s bench is now stronger than it has been in recent years, with a variety of options in every position. Players like Sam Byram, who signed a one-year extension, and the ever-reliable Jack Harrison provide depth in the attacking and defensive areas.
In the coming weeks, the club may look to add further reinforcements, particularly in the central midfield and attacking areas, where depth could be crucial during a long and challenging season.
Godwin Obaje
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