Leeds United will be without Tyler Adams, Jack Harrison, and Junior Firpo at the start of the 2023-24 season due to injuries. Adams, who is an international player for the United States Men’s National Team, underwent surgery for a hamstring injury in March and is still in the recovery process. It is unlikely that he will be available for the beginning of the new campaign. Harrison, on the other hand, is currently sidelined with a hip problem. Despite enjoying a relatively injury-free season in 2022-23, featuring in 36 out of Leeds’ 38 Premier League matches, Harrison could potentially be out until the next international break in September.
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke provided an update on the injured players, stating, “Jack Harrison and Tyler Adams are still on their way back. They are still doing their rehab so they will definitely miss the start of the season. It’s a bit too early to judge when they will be back. I expect them to perhaps be back after the first international break. Obviously, Jack and Tyler are top-class players and top characters, so it won’t be easy for us to start without them. That’s the reality.”
In addition to Adams and Harrison, defender Junior Firpo will also be unavailable for five weeks due to a ligament injury. Farke confirmed that Firpo will definitely miss the start of the season. These injuries will be a significant blow to Farke, who will be hoping to have a fully fit squad for Leeds’ first Championship game against Cardiff City.
Meanwhile, there is uncertainty surrounding Maximilian Wober’s future at Leeds United. The 25-year-old centre-back has been left out of the squad for their pre-season friendly against Monaco due to a “transfer situation.” Wober has been linked with a move away from Elland Road during the summer transfer window. Farke stated, “It has to do with the transfer situation and also the contract situation. We await what the outcome is over the next few days.”
Despite the injury setbacks and transfer uncertainties, Leeds United have made their first signing of the summer. Ethan Ampadu has joined the club permanently from Chelsea. The 22-year-old midfielder signed a four-year deal with the option of a further year. Leeds will pay £7 million ($9.1 million), plus £3 million in add-ons for Ampadu’s services.
Farke confirmed that Leeds United are looking to make more signings but urged patience during this busy period. He acknowledged the need for additions and new signings but also mentioned the possibility of outgoings. Farke emphasized the importance of being realistic about the club’s financial situation and not making any rash decisions. He stated, “We have owners who are ambitious with a lot of potential, but we can’t do anything stupid. We need to be a bit patient and run the club in a solid way.”
Leeds United fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on the injured players’ recoveries and any potential new signings as the start of the season approaches. Farke’s emphasis on patience and realism indicates that the club is taking a measured approach to strengthen the squad while ensuring financial stability. With a strong squad and careful management, Leeds United will be aiming for a successful season in the Championship.