Leeds United’s pre-season training camp in Germany is a critical phase for the team, as the club looks to fine-tune its preparations ahead of what is expected to be a challenging Premier League season. After their 0-0 draw against Manchester United in Sweden, the squad has now moved on to Germany for the second phase of their pre-season training. This is a vital period for Daniel Farke and his coaching team as they aim to get the players match-fit and mentally prepared for the upcoming campaign. With only a few weeks left until the Premier League opener, every training session is an opportunity to build cohesion, fine-tune tactical systems, and evaluate which players are ready to step up.
The focus of this particular pre-season phase is not just on fitness and conditioning but also on integrating the club’s new signings into the squad. Leeds United made five new signings during the summer, and all of them have already joined up with the squad. Their arrival brings fresh competition, excitement, and a sense of renewed optimism to the team. These new players will be crucial in Leeds’ bid to improve upon their inconsistent performances from last season and ensure their survival in the Premier League.
However, the pre-season camp in Germany has not been without its challenges. Two players in particular have yet to join up with the squad. Mateo Joseph, a young talent who has been tipped for big things at Leeds, has chosen not to return at this stage. His situation has raised some eyebrows, particularly after Farke’s rather candid comments following the 0-0 draw against Manchester United. Farke’s words were unambiguous and somewhat damning, suggesting that Joseph’s attitude or commitment might be called into question. Given the nature of Farke’s remarks, it’s clear that the young forward is not currently part of the manager’s plans, and his absence from the German training camp is a stark indication of where he stands in the pecking order.
Meanwhile, another key player, Brenden Aaronson, is due to return to the fold following his participation in the Gold Cup with the United States. Unfortunately, the U.S. men’s national team lost in the final to Mexico, meaning Aaronson’s summer international tournament came to a bittersweet end. While Aaronson’s absence from the squad in Germany was expected due to his international commitments, his return to Leeds is significant. The winger had a somewhat underwhelming first season at the club, and there is a lot of pressure on him to prove his worth to both the manager and the fans. He will need to hit the ground running in pre-season and show that he can contribute significantly in the Premier League this time around.
Despite the absences of Joseph and Aaronson, the focus of the pre-season camp has largely been on two players with a lot to prove: Jack Harrison and Lukas Nmecha. Both players are under intense scrutiny as they fight for their places in Farke’s plans for the new season. Harrison, in particular, finds himself in a precarious position. Having returned to Leeds after two seasons on loan at Everton, Harrison is now back at Elland Road with a point to prove. His relationship with the Leeds fanbase has been strained ever since his controversial loan move to Everton in the summer of 2023, where he exercised a relegation clause in his contract to leave the club. This move angered many fans, who felt that Harrison had betrayed the club after a successful spell at Leeds prior to his loan.
Harrison’s second stint at Everton was far from spectacular, as he managed only 9 goals and assists in 73 appearances across all competitions for the Toffees. With Everton opting not to make the deal permanent, Harrison has returned to Leeds for what feels like a make-or-break season. Despite his difficult relationship with some sections of the fanbase, Daniel Farke has not closed the door on the 28-year-old winger. In fact, Farke’s comments after the Manchester United game seemed to suggest that Harrison still has a future at Leeds. This is a significant development because Harrison still has three years left on his contract, meaning that a sale would result in a financial loss for the club. Instead, Leeds seems intent on reintegrating Harrison into the squad and giving him another chance to prove himself.
The fact that Harrison has stayed behind for extra training after the session in Germany speaks to his determination to regain the trust of both Farke and the supporters. The winger was reportedly working on his finishing during these additional sessions, a clear indication that he is keen to improve his contributions in front of goal. Despite the negative reactions from fans, Harrison is focusing on his performances, and if he impresses during the pre-season, he could well earn a starting spot for the season opener against Everton on August 18. The pressure is on for Harrison, and it remains to be seen whether he can win back the fans’ trust and justify his place in the team.
Meanwhile, Lukas Nmecha, another player looking to prove his worth, has been working tirelessly to show that he can be a valuable asset for Leeds this season. Nmecha has had a somewhat frustrating career so far, with injuries hampering his progress. During his four years at Wolfsburg, he made just 80 appearances, which is far from ideal for a player of his potential. His injury record has raised questions about his fitness and reliability, but Farke is clearly willing to give him a chance. Nmecha started alongside Harrison in the forward line during the game against Manchester United, and although he has not been able to make a major impact in terms of goals or assists so far, he has shown glimpses of his ability.
Like Harrison, Nmecha is also focusing on his finishing in extra training sessions, aiming to improve his goal-scoring potential. The striker is clearly working hard to ensure that he can contribute to Leeds’ attacking options this season, but his ability to stay fit and perform consistently will be key to whether he earns a spot in the first team. With the club lacking depth in attack, particularly after the departure of Manor Solomon, Nmecha’s development will be closely monitored throughout the pre-season. If he can stay injury-free and improve his finishing, he could provide Farke with another attacking option to support the likes of Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo.
As the pre-season continues, the situation surrounding Harrison and Nmecha will remain one of the most intriguing storylines. Both players are under immense pressure to perform, not only to justify their place in the squad but also to prove that they can make a significant impact in the Premier League. Harrison’s relationship with the fans is complicated, and his ability to regain their trust will be pivotal in determining whether he can play a key role for Leeds this season. Nmecha, on the other hand, has the opportunity to prove that he can be a reliable option for the team, but his injury history means he will need to show he can stay fit and produce when called upon.
Looking ahead to Leeds’ next friendly against Villarreal on August 2, there may be further clarity on the roles that Harrison and Nmecha will play in the coming season. Given Leeds’ current squad composition and the fact that they have not yet signed a direct replacement for Manor Solomon, both players could play a significant part in the opening stages of the season. The pre-season friendlies will be vital in helping Farke make his final decisions about who will start against Everton on August 18.
In conclusion, Leeds United’s pre-season camp in Germany is not just about physical fitness but also about the mental determination of players like Jack Harrison and Lukas Nmecha, who are looking to prove their worth to both the coach and the fans. Harrison’s ability to regain the trust of the supporters and showcase his talent will be crucial, while Nmecha’s fitness and consistency will determine his role in the squad. Farke has some tough decisions to make in the coming weeks, but it is clear that both players have the motivation to work hard and make a meaningful contribution to the club this season.