Brendan Rodgers could emerge Leeds United manager after Daniel Farke amids Leeds approach
Just over two years ago, Leeds United found themselves at one of the lowest points in their modern history. Following a turbulent Premier League campaign that ended in relegation, the club faced an uncertain future. The 49ers Enterprises, who had recently completed their full takeover of the club, were tasked with rebuilding both on and off the pitch. Their first major decision was appointing a new manager — a move that would shape the next chapter of Leeds United’s story.
In the end, Daniel Farke was the man chosen to lead the club’s revival. His appointment came after an extensive search for a candidate with both Championship experience and the temperament to navigate the pressures of a promotion campaign. However, as many fans will remember, Farke wasn’t the 49ers’ first choice.
When Leeds’ relegation was confirmed, Sam Allardyce — who had been brought in for the final four matches of that fateful Premier League season — was thanked for his service and allowed to depart. The new ownership wanted a long-term project, not a short-term firefighter, and began exploring several managerial options. Among the names linked to Elland Road were some of the most respected coaches in the British game.
One of their top targets was Graham Potter, now the head coach of Sweden. The 49ers reportedly made an ambitious attempt to persuade the former Brighton and Chelsea boss to take the reins at Elland Road, but their advances were unsuccessful. Potter chose to bide his time, leaving Leeds to turn to other options.
Another prominent name on their wishlist was Brendan Rodgers. The Northern Irishman, who had previously enjoyed great success at Celtic and Leicester City, was seen as the ideal candidate to rebuild Leeds into a competitive Premier League outfit. Journalist Phil Hay revealed at the time that Rodgers was the manager Leeds “really wanted” more than anyone else. However, convincing him to join a club fresh from relegation proved an impossible task. Instead, Rodgers returned to Celtic for a second spell, while Leeds moved ahead with talks with Farke — who impressed the board during initial discussions and was soon offered a four-year contract.
Fast forward to the present day, and the managerial landscape has taken another dramatic turn. Earlier this week, Rodgers unexpectedly resigned from his position at Celtic following a disappointing defeat to Premiership leaders Hearts. Reports from Scotland suggest that his relationship with the club’s board had deteriorated amid growing frustration over recruitment and investment. Despite winning both the League and League Cup last season, Rodgers decided to walk away, leaving Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney to take temporary charge.
Now, speculation has quickly resurfaced linking Rodgers with a potential return to English football — and Leeds United’s name has inevitably entered the conversation once again. The 49ers’ admiration for Rodgers is well-known, and his availability comes at a time when Daniel Farke finds himself under increasing scrutiny.
Leeds have made a steady return to life back in the Premier League under Farke, but recent performances have raised questions about their consistency. With tough fixtures against Brighton and Nottingham Forest looming before the November international break, a poor run of results could pile even more pressure on the German coach.
The 49ers’ leadership, particularly Paraag Marathe, are believed to hold Rodgers in high regard. His experience, tactical intelligence, and track record of success in both England and Scotland make him an appealing option should Leeds decide to make a managerial change. While Farke has earned credit for guiding the club back to the top flight, the availability of someone of Rodgers’ pedigree could tempt the owners to act decisively if results begin to slide.
For now, Farke remains at the helm and continues to enjoy the support of much of the fanbase. But the shadow of Brendan Rodgers — a manager once courted by Leeds and admired by their hierarchy — now looms large over Elland Road. The coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Farke’s tenure continues to build momentum, or if Leeds United once again look to the Northern Irishman they originally wanted to lead their resurgence.