AliousAfter being linked with players such as Rodrigo Muniz and Igor Paixao, Leeds United ultimately brought in Noah Okafor, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Lukas Nmecha. Many supporters were quick to question those signings before the trio had even stepped onto the pitch at Elland Road.
Since then, however, each of them has made a meaningful contribution. Calvert-Lewin currently leads the club’s scoring charts, Nmecha sits just behind him, and Okafor has shown increasing promise as the campaign has unfolded.
Farke’s stance makes his pecking order clear
Comments from head coach Daniel Farke appear to indicate that Nmecha will start on the bench when Leeds host Manchester City at Elland Road this weekend.
Throughout the season, Nmecha and Calvert-Lewin have rotated frequently. The German forward enjoyed a consistent run in the side once fully fit and made a strong impression, justifying the club’s decision to sign him. In recent matches, particularly during Calvert-Lewin’s absence, Nmecha has also demonstrated he is capable of leading the line on his own.
Nevertheless, Farke’s recent praise for Calvert-Lewin — even describing him as second only to Erling Haaland among Premier League strikers — strongly suggests the former Everton man remains first choice.
Nmecha has found the net in three of his last four outings, raising valid questions about whether he deserves to start ahead of Calvert-Lewin, who has managed just one goal in his previous six appearances across all competitions. The German has arguably made greater impact with fewer minutes and could feel entitled to a bigger opportunity.
That said, Calvert-Lewin’s overall form this season should not be overlooked. Healthy competition in attack can only benefit Leeds, and having two capable goal scorers gives the team valuable depth. Even if Nmecha is not in the starting XI, he has shown he can make a decisive impact whenever called upon.
Alious
