Wilfried Gnonto
Leeds United are gearing up for a significant challenge as they face Manchester United at Old Trafford, a ground where they have not tasted league success since 1981. The last memorable triumph came in the 2010 FA Cup when Leeds, then a League One club, stunned the Red Devils. Despite a spirited 2-2 draw in February 2023 under caretaker boss Michael Skubala, Leeds have struggled to secure a win at the Theatre of Dreams in league competition.
Wilfried Gnonto said: “I think that’s one of the best [memories] I have for Leeds. It was just incredible. I hope I can do it again.”
Daniel Farke said: “The rivalry between Leeds and Man Utd need not be mentioned much to his players because everyone is aware of it. I think it’s important to take this into the fixture. When you are in touch with our supporters in normal day life, you know how much it means to them. So I don’t need to point this out. It’s even a bit more to make sure they’re not over-motivated and go across the line. I think this is important – to play with fire in the heart, but cool in the head.”
Wilfried Gnonto added: “I think it’s good to understand that it’s a different game. At the same time, you don’t have to let it get to your head. Because you don’t want to play too much with emotion. You just have to treat it as a normal game, even if it’s not.”
Tony Dorigo said: “I think we know it’s going to be very, very difficult [for Leeds]. The rivalry is something else. But at the end of day, they [Man United] are on a really good run. We desperately need points as well, so we’ll be fighting for our lives too, but I think we can’t make mistakes. Anytime we do get our chances, I think our ratio of taking those chances needs to be a bit higher.”
Stuart Dallas said: “You need a result just to give you that little bit of confidence back. It’ll give everybody a lift to see the reaction after Sunday after the penalty shootout – you’ve seen the reaction of the players, what it means to them.”
Leeds United’s current form has been inconsistent, with their last league win dating back to early February. The team has also struggled to find the back of the net in recent matches. However, the FA Cup quarter-final victory over West Ham, which ended in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, has provided a much-needed morale boost. As they prepare to face Manchester United, Leeds are aware of the challenge ahead, with the Red Devils currently enjoying a strong run under caretaker manager Michael Carrick.
The absence of key players like Daniel James due to injury could provide an opportunity for Wilfried Gnonto to make an impact. Despite not having started a Premier League match since November, Gnonto remains optimistic about Leeds’ chances, emphasizing the need to approach the game with determination and composure.
As the highest-ranked team Leeds have left to play in this run-in period, Manchester United presents a formidable obstacle. Yet, with the relegation battle intensifying and the deep-seated rivalry between the clubs, a victory at Old Trafford would mean more than just three points for Leeds United.
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