Reason #1: STABILITY
Last season, Leeds United found themselves in the media for off-the-pitch matters more than those on it. Owner Massimo Cellino is on his fifth manager in just over a year in charge, and is far from patient when things are going against The Whites. This summer however, has changed that. The appointment of Adam Pearson as club executive, and the consequently hiring of a good coaching staff and the correct backroom staff means that Leeds are in a much better position to achieve success. Leeds are acting in a professional manner, and the appointment of Pearson seems to be stopping Cellino from making rash and decisions that haven’t been thought about. Stability is the key to success, and going into Saturday it is something that Leeds certainly possess.
Reason #2: RECRUITMENT
Whilst a number of staff appointments have been made that have helped put The Whites into a much better position now, the recruitment of players has been much better this summer. The club has recruited in the right areas and now possess a strong starting 11 that is capable of scoring goals. Stuart Dallas was recently brought in to play on the left-wing, and he will be looking to supply £2.5 million signing Chris Wood up front. Sol Bamba’s presence in defence will have a big impact on Leeds and the captain will organise his side well. Midfielder Tom Adeyemi has impressed over pre-season and will continue that form into the first game of the season.
Reason #3: FORMATION
With a new Head Coach comes a new style of play. Uwe Rosler has outlined that he would prefer a 4-3-3 formation with quick movement and a desire to attack. Linking in with recruitment, Rosler now has the right players at his disposal to play the way he prefers. The Head Coach used his time away from football to study a number of European clubs such as Borussia Dortmund and watch the way that they play. Leeds will be looking to replicate these teams and go into the first game with a solid idea of how they will be playing football.
