Leeds United’s return to the Premier League for the 2025-26 season has proven to be a significant challenge. Joining the league alongside Sunderland and Burnley, replacing Southampton, Leicester, and Ipswich, Daniel Farke’s team has had to fight for every point. After three years away, they’ve returned to the top flight, spending the current season in a constant battle for survival.
Currently, Leeds United finds itself in 15th place in the Premier League, just four points above the relegation zone—close enough to feel the pressure but distant enough to maintain some composure. Alongside their survival fight, they have achieved a significant milestone by reaching the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 39 years, overcoming West Ham 4-2 on penalties after an exciting 2-2 draw.
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Keith Wyness Highlights the Importance of a Cup Final and Survival for a Successful Season
That thrilling victory at the London Stadium has drawn attention from Keith Wyness, the former CEO of Everton and current advisor to elite clubs. On the Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he expressed that reaching a cup final while avoiding relegation would mark a significant success for Leeds. He emphasized the historical significance of their upcoming semi-final against Chelsea, recalling the fierce 1970 final between the two clubs.
Wyness acknowledged the deep-rooted rivalries that such matches evoke for long-time fans. He expressed confidence in Farke’s capabilities as a Premier League manager, referring to Leeds as a cup-determined team that could indeed secure a result at Wembley. His opinion aligns with the general sentiment: for a newly promoted side with budget constraints, reaching a Wembley final would be an extraordinary achievement, far exceeding initial expectations set in August.
“If they can make it to a cup final, that would be phenomenal,” he said.
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“The matches between Chelsea and Leeds stir up a lot of memories for my generation, especially the notorious cup final. It was truly a battle, and I encourage everyone to watch footage of that game. It was remarkable—the two-legged fixtures and the replay were incredible.”
“Daniel Farke has learned a lot and has proven himself as a Premier League manager. He has the Leeds squad performing well, and they can indeed challenge Chelsea.”
“If they reach a cup final and stay up, that would be seen as a very successful season for Leeds. I’m sure the fans would appreciate that outcome.”
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Can Leeds United Afford to Approach This Season as a Cup-and-Survive Opportunity?
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 05: Daniel Farke, Manager of Leeds United, inspects the pitch before the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on April 05, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
The answer is yes, but there’s a crucial point to consider. Wyness is correct in stating that a cup run along with survival would be amazing; however, there is a danger in becoming too enchanted by the allure of the cup while the league standings remain tight. Many have questioned if reaching a cup final would still be worthwhile if Leeds were to face relegation, and the honest truth is it would not.
Relegation would undermine everything the club has worked to build, including its finances, squad cohesion, and faith in Farke’s leadership in maintaining Leeds’ top-flight status. Nevertheless, there’s no concrete evidence that the cup run is negatively impacting their league form.
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With the semi-final scheduled for April 25, Leeds United has the chance to prioritize both aspects. The reality is that this squad does not appear daunted by the pressure of high-stakes matches; in fact, they thrive under it. This resilience is precisely why their matchup against Chelsea feels promising.