Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Tue 17 March 2026 18:40, UK

Gabriel Gudmundsson was a priority target for Leeds United last summer.

The Whites were very keen on the former LOSC Lille star’s addition in LS11 and it’s safe to say that the decision has paid off after an impressive 2025-26 season.

Daniel Farke has heavily relied on the left-back, who was confident about getting regular game time at the West Yorkshire outfit before making the switch from the Ligue 1 club.

Gudmundsson has been key at Elland Road, recently scoring and assisting his first goals for the Peacocks against Norwich City in the FA Cup, and there’s undoubtedly more to come from him.

How Leeds United convinced Gabriel Gudmundsson over summer move

Leeds’ eagerness to sign Gudmundsson gave him confidence that it was the right move.

The Whites desired the Sweden international’s signing at Elland Road, which seemingly convinced the defender.

In the current campaign, the left-back has started in 28 games for the West Yorkshire outfit, highlighting the faith Farke has in him.

Gudmundsson is yet to score or assist in the Premier League, but with consistent opportunities, the 26-year-old is confident about getting even better, and fans will certainly take him at his word.

There’s likely more to come from the defender at the Peacocks, with the main focus currently on avoiding Premier League relegation.

Speaking to Fotbollskanalen on 16 March, the ex-Lille star said, “I’m not surprised. I’ve always believed in this opportunity and that’s probably why I chose Leeds too. They were very keen to get me in and I felt that there was a good opportunity to get a lot of playing time. In the beginning, of course, it’s always a competitive situation.

“But precisely because they were so keen to get me in, it felt like there was a good opportunity to get a lot of playing time in the beginning and then it has flowed very well. Then it’s always like that, I think the more you play, the better you get.”

Who will replace Gabriel Gudmundsson vs Brentford?

Gudmundsson was sent off against Crystal Palace and will miss the upcoming league game against Brentford at home on 21 March.

Sam Byram is a natural replacement for the Swedish left-back in the squad, but he hasn’t played much in the current campaign.

James Justin feels like the obvious choice to slot in Gudmundsson’s position, with Jayden Bogle returning to the starting lineup.

Leeds have shown they’re a resolute defensive unit and fans will surely be confident about getting the three points against the Bees.