Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is waiting for an update on Willy Gnonto, who was substituted at half-time while on international service.
The 22-year-old started the encounter for Italy U21s against San Marino on Thursday [5 September] but was replaced at half-time after several hard challenges from the opposition.
Gnonto did not appear concerned heading into the interval, and the change could have been a preventative measure to avoid an injury [Yorkshire Evening Post], but his status is uncertain, with Farke awaiting additional information.
Leeds United will do OK without Willy Gnonto.
The decision to remove the Italian U21 captain at halftime may have been prudent, given the team’s two-goal lead, but it could also bode trouble for Leeds United and Gnonto.
No goal contributions against a team that went on to lose 7-0 is not good news for the forward. The Whites are packed in the offensive positions following the summer transfer window, and Gnonto may lose his place in the team.
Largie Ramazani and Manor Solomon joined the Elland Road squad in the last days of the summer to compete with Daniel James and Gnonto, with the latter starting on the other wing to the Italian in the Championship’s 2-0 victory over Hull City.
Mateo Joseph has been in excellent form since the start of the 2024/25 season, and he opened his account against the Tigers. He now appears to be set to lead Leeds’ assault, with Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford waiting in the wings.
Farke has reversed the Whites’ fortunes following a dismal start to the season. His team is now well-positioned to pursue the automatic promotion slots, and there will be no room for complacency in the Premier League race.
Gnonto has one goal in four Championship games and is in danger of losing his starting spot. If he has truly acquired an injury, he may have to fight his way back into the side.
