(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

Daniel Farke has found his very own Erling Haaland - and he's nicknamed 'the Boxer'

Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Leeds United are looking to seal the signing of Ermedin Demirovic before the transfer window closes.

Daniel Farke is keen to upgrade his attack as the West Yorkshire side look to survive the Premier League drop.

As a result, Leeds are eyeing a move for Demirovic, who has impressed at Stuttgart.

Now, ahead of the potential transfer, MOT Leeds News has looked into why the striker has been nicknamed ‘the Boxer’.

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke waving at fans
Daniel Farke is keen to add another striker to his squad (Credit: Imago)

Why is Ermedin Demirovic called the Boxer?

In Germany, Demirovic has developed a big reputation. 

Previously playing for Augsburg before his move to Stuttgart last summer, Demirovic has been compared to Erling Haaland.

Therefore, it is of no surprise that fans have quickly taken to the Bosnia and Herzegovina international.

  • Demirovic helped Stuttgart win the DFB-Pokal last season
  • In the 2024/25 campaign the striker netted 17 goals in all competitions
  • Demirovic is also a Bosnia and Herzegovina with 34 caps

However, many might be surprised to know that the 27-year-old is often called the Boxer by supporters.

According to an article by the Bundesliga on 16 July 2024, this is due to Demirovic’s fighting spirit on the pitch. 

When asked about this nickname, the striker said: “It has to do with the path that has taken me to where I am now. 

“From back during my school days to walking on the street. Wherever I went, I channelled that into me because I've always needed to ‘box’ my way out of situations ever since I was a kid. 

“I try to do the same on the pitch as well: to box myself out of difficult situations. I love the sport as well. I follow boxing. That's how it came about. That's how the nickname came to be as well."

Potential new Leeds star Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Leeds have also added Calvert-Lewin to their attack (Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media)

How good is Ermedin Demirovic?

If Demirovic does come to Leeds, fans have every right to be excited. 

The striker is easily one of the best attackers in Germany, and his stats, according to Fbref on 21 August, back this up.

Stats per 90 minutes over last 365 daysErmedin Demirovic
Non-penalty goals0.64
Shots3.34
Assists0.04
Expected assists0.09
Passing completion71.3%
Touches in attacking box6.25
Progessive passes recieved5.73
Demirovic has top attacking stats

On top of this, his physicality would be a welcome bonus to the squad.

Jamie Carragher has already highlighted how important height is to Leeds in their relegation battle, and Demirovic no doubt provides this.

Hopefully, the Peacocks will now be able to quickly get the deal over the line before another side looks to jump in. 

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