Early Premier League Predictions: Who Goes Down?
By Tanish Menon
4. Leeds United
This one’s a wild shout but hear me out…
Jesse Marsch did well to ensure Leeds United Premier League survival last season as they had so many injury issues, were lacking in confidence, and defensively they were all over the place. After last season’s theatrics, Marsch emphasized the need for more signings and he has certainly received the backing.
The response to bringing in almost £100 million from the sales of Phillips and Raphinha has been the signing of six overseas players – the most expensive being £22.5 million Feyenoord’s Colombian forward Luis Sinisterra – none of whom have Premier League pedigree.
Everyone connected with U.S. Soccer wants Jesse Marsch to succeed at Leeds United.
They still look like a Marcelo Bielsa side with their crazy pressing but Marsch has delivered a small pinch of pragmatism to that madness. However, Leeds fans are yet to be convinced of his stature and whether he really is worth the hassle.
Leeds fans witnessed a 5-goal drubbing at the hands of Brentford and will remain concerned as to how the team will react after such a heavy defeat.
They have conceded 10 goals and scored 10 in return. Letting Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips join Barcelona and Manchester City respectively could come back to haunt them. The atmosphere at Elland Road is yet another factor that could prove to be pivotal if they are to stay in the league.