Leeds United face Arsenal with injury concerns
Former Leeds coach Alejandro Lorenzo said Raphinha always dreamed of Barcelona, inspired by Ronaldinho, and stood out at Leeds for elite finishing, sprints and professionalism.
James Trafford’s England hopes remain intact despite sitting out the 7-0 win over Croatia, with Jordan Pickford making a couple of shaky errors despite keeping a clean sheet.
Dan James and Sean Longstaff face key months at Leeds. Both are down the pecking order under Daniel Farke and could leave in January without a strong response.
Lukas Nmecha’s Leeds future is cast as uncertain, with reduced minutes and a deal up in 2027. Wrexham and Southampton are tipped as possible free-transfer suitors.
Leeds face Arsenal with Joe Rodon and Mateo Joseph out, while Harry Wilson and Jean-Matteo Bahoya are doubts. Arsenal have five absentees and seven more fitness concerns.
Pablo Hernandez has been linked with a possible future Leeds managerial role. The former midfielder is in charge of Castellon and has said Leeds is his 'home away from home'.
Farke may recall Jaka Bijol for Arsenal and drop summer signing Nico Elvedi. Bijol’s clean sheets with Slovenia and Joe Rodon’s injury strengthen his case.
Leeds can trouble Arsenal by pressing hard and attacking transitions, as Brighton did in a 3-0 win. Farke’s side must stay disciplined and be ruthless at the Emirates.
