Daniel Farke has predicted a difficult start to the season for Leeds United, with the club having already lost a dozen first-team players and more agitating to leave. The German manager, who took over following relegation from the Premier League, admitted he expects a 'bumpy road through August' as he attempts to stabilise the squad.
Speaking ahead of Friday's Championship home game against West Bromwich Albion, Farke confirmed that Willy Gnonto, Luis Sinisterra and Hélder Costa have been exiled from first-team training and the dressing room after seeking moves away from Elland Road. Gnonto, a 19-year-old Italy forward, has no exit clause in his contract and Leeds insist they will not sell him, despite his alleged refusal to play.
Exit clauses have been a recurring issue for Farke, who said he was surprised by the number of players with such provisions. 'It's a lot,' he said. 'I had a similar situation at Norwich after relegation but I'm not sure any club in western Europe had more of these clauses than Leeds. As long as I'm in control you can be sure it won't happen again.'
The departures include Jack Harrison, Max Wöber, Brenden Aaronson and Robin Koch, who have all left on loan or permanently. Only four players have arrived so far: Ethan Ampadu, Karl Darlow, Sam Byram and Joe Rodon. Farke acknowledged the squad is young, with an average age of 23, and that pre-season was too short.
'I don't think we'll be at our best in August because pre-season was too short and we had other distractions,' Farke said. 'But the quality and personality of the players we bring in is the most important thing. I want lads who are fully committed to Leeds and willing to defend the shirt.'
