Ex-Norwich City boss Daniel Farke on Leeds Premier challenge

Norwich City’s former double title-winning boss Daniel Farke is relishing another shot at the Premier League ahead of Leeds United’s Monday night opener against Everton.

Farke was unable to keep the Canaries in the top flight, after a memorable Championship title winning season in 2018/19, and dismissed within months of his second attempt after bouncing back with another Football League title.

The German made it a hat-trick of second tier championships with Leeds last season, but insists the comparisons end there as he bids to prove he can cut it in the big league.

“Fundamentally, as a coach, you have to constantly develop. Standing still is regression. Norwich wasn't comparable,” he said. “Back then, we didn't have a Premier League-ready squad, barely had a budget, and the focus was on financial consolidation. Nevertheless, we achieved a lot until the coronavirus pandemic hit.

"Leeds is a completely different project—a bigger club, different opportunities. But it will be difficult there, too. The realistic thing is: We have a chance of avoiding relegation, and we want to take advantage of it.

“I'm a football romantic, but not naive. The Premier League demands different qualities. We stay true to our DNA – proactive, lots of possession – but we also have to be able to defend in a structured way. Romanticism mustn't obscure our view of reality. That requires tough decisions, even with deserving players. It's never easy, but it's necessary.”

Farke has been linked with a potential summer reunion with Josh Sargent, who he originally brought to Carrow Road. Leeds added free agent forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin in recent days but Farke still wants to bolster his frontline to keep the Whites in the division.

“In recent years, many promoted teams have been relegated straight back down the line – even with heavy investment. Money alone isn't the solution,” he said, speaking to Sky Sport Germany. “You need a clear idea, suitable players with quality and character. Leeds is a big, emotional club – the jersey is heavy. We wanted players who have played at a high level and are still hungry.

"The ideal age is between 24 and 29 – on the way to their career peak. We're not finished yet; we need reinforcements, especially in attack. If we can do that, we might be able to break the curse and stay in the league as a newly promoted team.”

Farke has raided the Bundesliga this summer to add the likes of former Norwich target, Sebastiaan Bornauw, along with Anton Stach and Lukas Nmecha.

“I don't like squads that are too big. We want players we need and who will make us better – both athletically and personally. All three have proven what they can do; they have character and potential,” he said. “Some have been injured, which is why they were available. We hope they can get back to their best.

"With the new players and the existing squad, we have a good foundation – and if we can improve offensively, I'm optimistic.”

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