Farke already has Solomon replacement after what happened in Leeds win v Paderborn
Leeds United look determined to add another winger to their ranks over the summer.
Manor Solomon left West Yorkshire a hero, with his inspired performances and unforgettable title-winning goal set to live long in the memory of Leeds supporters.
With Solomon now returning to Tottenham following his loan spell, the 49ers and Daniel Farke have turned their attention to bringing Igor Paixao to Elland Road, with an arrival in LS11 looking inevitable for the Brazilian.
Whilst this blockbuster signing is a more than welcome addition on the left flank, Farke already has a player at his disposal who is also more than capable of producing magic.
Willy Gnonto scores stunning goal in pre-season from the left
With Largie Ramazani still yet to get regular first-team minutes, Farke has multiple quality options out wide within his squad.
It’s easy to forget that Gnonto initially broke into the Leeds side as a left winger during the 2022/23 season, when the young Italian scored two goals and recorded four assists in 14 Premier League starts.
Whilst Gnonto has still been a vital member of the squad that won promotion back to the Premier League, Farke has almost exclusively deployed Gnonto on the right wing.
Although the 21-year-old is certainly capable of playing on both sides, it is on the left in which he especially thrives.
| Willy Gnonto | Championship stats (2024/25 season) |
| Total minutes | 2309 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 6 |
Gnonto’s signature move involves cutting inside onto his favoured right foot before driving his shots low towards the near post.
His goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford is a prime example of this, and whilst he has developed the ability to somewhat replicate this move on the right wing, Gnonto’s best position is undoubtedly off the left.
The Italian proved this again with his latest goal in pre-season against Paderborn on Saturday, with his ability to drop the shoulder and drift inside, where he can showcase his pinpoint shooting and excellent weight of final ball.
Farke must deploy Gnonto more on the left next season
Gnonto has arguably been unlucky that Solomon and Crysencio Summerville both had wonderful seasons on the left wing in the two years Leeds were in the Championship, but Farke still could have given him more minutes on his preferred side.
Gnonto should not automatically start every game on the left wing next season, especially if the Whites secure the services of Paixao.
However, if Farke wants to get the best out of Gnonto next season, then deploying him on the left wing more is necessary.
Given how long Gnonto’s been in and around the team, it’s easy to forget his young age, but Farke potentially already has the replacement for Solomon on his hands with the 21-year-old being one of Leeds’ most technically impressive players for multiple seasons now.
This is where Farke earns his money, as although Paixao will be the first choice if he signs for the Elland Road outfit, it is up to the German to ensure that the likes of Gnonto and Ramazani still play regularly enough, where they can contribute to keeping Leeds in the Premier League.
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