The identity of those involved in the events of the summer of ’23 may eventually be revealed, but as long as no individual receives specific commendation, there won’t be any scapegoats. The success of Elland Road’s recruitment in the early post-Victor Orta era hinges on this season’s promotion efforts. If it manages to rectify the damage caused by the previous regime’s poor decisions, it will be viewed positively. Despite only being a few months into the campaign, the choices made in the summer transfer window already seem sensible, considering the inherited contractual mess and mass player exodus.
Players like Ethan Ampadu, Joel Piroe, Joe Rodon, Sam Byram, and potentially Glen Kamara are establishing themselves as solid signings. The appointment of Daniel Farke as manager was a clear and low-risk decision for leading a credible promotion charge. Leeds focused on familiar faces for recruitment, avoiding unconventional choices. Even lesser-known figures like Ilia Gruev were known entities to Farke, who had a significant say in the arrivals at Elland Road.
However, beyond Farke, the decision-making process involved many unknown individuals. While CEO Angus Kinnear’s role was evident, technical director Gretar Steinsson and interim football advisor Nick Hammond were also announced. The division of responsibilities and decision-making within this trio remains undisclosed. Much of the club’s operations since the involvement of 49ers Enterprises have been kept behind closed doors. Club chairman Paraag Marathe, during a meeting with the Leeds United Supporters Trust, emphasized a low-profile approach. The 49ers seem to communicate only when there’s something significant to share, letting the football and Farke speak for themselves.
😬 “I didn’t have the best performances."
🎙 Weston McKennie on his #LUFC stint last season.https://t.co/MkpD95Pku5
— Leeds United News (@LeedsUnitedYEP) November 23, 2023
This intentional or unintentional low profile has prevented any one person from becoming a lightning rod for criticism. By avoiding attributing signings to a specific individual, the success or failure becomes a collective responsibility of the club. Unlike the previous era where Orta was closely linked to every aspect of transfer work, the current approach reduces the risk of undue criticism. The criticism of Orta, particularly after a deserved relegation, was sometimes excessive, considering the constraints he faced.
In the new era, faces like Hammond can move around Elland Road unnoticed, maintaining a low public profile. Steinsson, while more recognizable due to his Premier League footballer background, has kept a faint public footprint since joining the club. In the later days of Orta’s tenure, the focus shifted from his quirky antics to division amid a relegation battle. It appears that Leeds is attempting to learn from this, allowing key figures to work in the shadows without distraction from public praise or criticism. Hammond is confirmed to be part of the team for upcoming transfer windows. Regardless of who discovers future signings, whether Hammond, Steinsson, or others in the scouting and analysis team, successful Premier League signings will benefit everyone involved.