Andrea Radrizzani issues ‘very difficult’ Leeds United verdict amid ambitious targets

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Andrea Radrizzani admits it will be ‘very difficult’ for Leeds United to remain in the Premier League after a difficult start to their second season back in the top-flight, via Leeds Live.

Leeds enjoyed a successful return to the Premier League as Championship title-holders last term with a ninth-place finish. They thrilled with an attacking style of play, which returned the sixth-most goals (62). More than fourth-place Chelsea (58) and eight-place Arsenal (55).

But the Elland Road outfit have only won two of their opening 10 fixtures to sit 17th in the standings this season. Marcelo Bielsa’s side have also only scored 10 goals so far, marking the fourth-worst offensive record. Only Norwich, Tottenham and Southampton have fewer.

Leeds’ results after the opening quarter of the campaign have left United owner Radrizzani somewhat fearful for their top-flight status. But the 47-year-old believes the future in West Yorkshire can be bright if they can retain their Premier League standing.

“People think sometimes I’m crazy to do this investment, but it is rational because with the right people and management it can be rational,” Radrizzani said. “Give time to flourish the project and we can achieve things.

“Now, we are partnering with the [San Francisco] 49ers. This year, it will be very difficult to stay in the Premier League. But if we stay up this year, we can do much more next year. Next, the top-six over time and hopefully start to renovate the stadium and grow this club.”

Do Leeds have enough to maintain their Premier League status this season?

Radrizzani will hope Leeds have enough to maintain their Premier League status this season once Bielsa boasts a fully-fit squad. The Whites have endured a horrific spate of injuries this season, with Patrick Bamford, Kalvin Phillips and Luke Ayling among those to miss action.

Bamford has missed five games with an ankle injury that Bielsa does not know when he will return form. While Ayling has also sat out each of the Whites’ fixtures since drawing 1-1 at Newcastle United on September 17. A run that has returned two wins, but just five goals.