Leeds United are enjoying a strong start to the Premier League season, currently sitting in third place. Their unbeaten run includes a 4-1 home victory over Newcastle United on Monday, marking their best top-flight start since the 2001-02 season under David O'Leary.
The team's improved performance is attributed to a tactical change implemented by manager Daniel Farke almost nine months ago. Farke switched from a back four to a back three formation during a match against Manchester City on 29 November. Since then, Leeds have lost only five of their last 29 league games.
Robust recruitment in the 2025 summer transfer window also played a part, with Farke and sporting director Adam Underwood signing several tall players to add physicality. Key signings included World Cup players Tarik Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi, alongside goalkeeper James Trafford, who joined for an initial £40m from Manchester City.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been a notable beneficiary of the tactical shift, scoring 14 top-flight goals since last December. He thrives with a strike partner, often Lukas Nmecha or Noah Okafor, who has seven goals and an assist in his past 11 league appearances. Calvert-Lewin aims to become the first Leeds player since 1932 to score in six consecutive league home games when Crystal Palace visit Elland Road on Saturday.