Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is facing a crucial decision regarding Manor Solomon’s involvement in the upcoming Championship clash against Swansea City on March 22, 2025. The Whites remain top of the Championship despite their recent 2-2 draw against Queens Park Rangers (QPR) on March 15. However, their position at the summit has become far more precarious after both Sheffield United and Burnley secured wins, closing the gap on Farke’s men as the promotion race intensifies. With just eight matches remaining in the season, Leeds cannot afford to drop any more points if they want to secure automatic promotion back to the Premier League.
Solomon’s Recent Struggles Raise Concerns
One of the most pressing issues for Leeds is the recent dip in form of Israeli winger Manor Solomon. The 25-year-old, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, has been an important figure in Farke’s attacking setup this season, contributing significantly to the team’s success earlier in the campaign. However, Solomon has failed to register a goal or assist in his last six appearances, marking a sharp decline from his red-hot form earlier in 2025, when he recorded eight goal involvements in just seven matches between January 4 and February 11.
His latest outing against QPR saw him substituted in the 84th minute, with Largie Ramazani taking his place. Solomon was visibly frustrated by the decision, showing an angry reaction on the sidelines. While passion is often seen as a positive trait in competitive football, public displays of frustration can create unnecessary tension within the squad. Given his lack of attacking contributions in recent matches, there is a growing argument that Farke should drop Solomon to the bench in favor of fresher attacking options.
Leeds’ Promotion Hopes Hang in the Balance
While Solomon’s individual form is a concern, the bigger issue for Leeds is their recent inconsistency. The Whites have dropped points in three of their last four league matches, a run that includes:
March 15, 2025 – 2-2 draw vs QPR (A)
March 12, 2025 – 2-0 win vs Millwall (H)
March 9, 2025 – 1-0 loss vs Portsmouth (A)
March 1, 2025 – 1-1 draw vs West Bromwich Albion (H)
These results have allowed their closest rivals to close the gap, with Sheffield United now level on points with Leeds following their 2-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday. Burnley are also lurking just behind, keeping the automatic promotion race wide open. If Leeds continue to stutter, they may find themselves slipping into the playoff positions—a scenario that has historically been unfavorable for them.
The Championship playoffs are notoriously unpredictable, and Leeds fans know this all too well. Their last experience in the playoffs ended in heartbreak during the 2018/19 season when they lost to Derby County in the semi-finals despite being one of the best teams in the division that year. Farke’s primary objective is to avoid this fate by ensuring Leeds finish in the top two.
Tactical Adjustments Needed for Swansea City Clash
With a two-week break before their next match against Swansea City, Farke has time to reassess his squad and make the necessary tactical adjustments. Given Solomon’s dip in form and his reaction to being subbed off, Farke might opt to bench him for the trip to Wales. This would allow someone like Ramazani or Crysencio Summerville to start on the left wing, providing fresh attacking impetus.
Swansea’s recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, one draw, and three losses in their last six matches. This presents a golden opportunity for Leeds to get back to winning ways and reestablish their dominance in the Championship. Farke will need to ensure his attacking lineup is firing on all cylinders, and if Solomon is not delivering, changes must be made.
A Crucial Run-In for Leeds
The final stretch of the season will determine whether Leeds can secure automatic promotion or if they will have to endure the unpredictability of the playoffs. Their remaining fixtures include crucial clashes against promotion rivals and teams fighting for survival. Farke must manage his squad wisely and ensure that every player is in peak form for the run-in.
Solomon has shown he can be a difference-maker when at his best, but his recent struggles suggest that a short spell on the bench could serve as a wake-up call. If he regains his form in the final weeks of the campaign, he could still play a key role in Leeds’ promotion push. However, if his slump continues, Farke will have no choice but to look elsewhere for inspiration.
Leeds fans will be hoping that the international break provides a much-needed reset for the squad. The upcoming match against Swansea is a must-win, and dropping more points could be disastrous for their title hopes. Whether Solomon starts or is benched, Leeds must put in a strong performance to regain their momentum and ensure they stay in control of their destiny.