Norwich City manager Daniel Farke’s style of football is heavily based on possession and ball control. His team dominated the Championship by controlling the ball throughout their matches. However, a weakness in Farke’s approach is vulnerability to an aggressive press. Burnley’s intense press exposed this weakness, and other teams have subsequently replicated the strategy. Flimsy pressing only takes players out of position and leaves space for attackers to exploit. Norwich striker Adam Idah must make improvements in his pressing and energy to be effective against the aggressive press.
A notable aspect of Farke’s tenure at Carrow Road was his use of Marco Stiepermann in an unconventional number 10 role. Stiepermann’s physical presence and goal contributions were key to Norwich’s success in winning the Championship title in 2019. In Leeds United, Joel Piroe plays a similar role, providing a physical presence and making well-timed runs to find his teammate, Georginio Rutter, in the opposition box. Tracking Piroe’s runs will be crucial for Norwich’s defense, as Rutter poses a physical threat and is Leeds’ most expensive signing. A diligent and concentrated performance will be needed from Norwich all over the pitch to counter Leeds’ threats.
Norwich will need luck on their side to emerge victorious against Leeds, as the visitors have Premier League quality players and can outplay any team in the second division on their day. Leeds have only lost one of their last nine league games and remain the only team to defeat Ipswich Town. Farke has a talented squad at his disposal, including players with top-flight experience like goalkeeper Illan Meslier, Daniel James, and Ethan Ampadu. Joe Rodon, Sam Byram, Glen Kamara, and Crysencio Summerville are also quality players in Leeds’ team. Although Norwich can implement tactical plans to limit Leeds, an off-day from Farke’s team would benefit his former side.
In conclusion, Norwich City must improve their ability to handle an aggressive press and track the runs of Leeds United’s attacking players. While Norwich has talent and can implement tactical plans, luck will play a role in their potential victory against a strong Leeds side.
