Daniel Farke called Leeds’ historic 2-1 win against Manchester United on Monday a «big step forward» in their battle for Premier League survival.
Leeds secured their first league win at Old Trafford since 1981 thanks to Noah Okafor’s first-half double.
United sent off Lisandro Martinez for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair in the second half, before Casemiro’s header set up a frantic finale.
A pair of goal-line clearances in the closing moments allowed Leeds to celebrate their first league win over United since 2002 and their first in any competition since 2010.
It was a crucial victory for Farke’s side, who were six points clear of the relegation zone with six games to go.
«Proud of the boys. Fantastic performance. We are in the crucial time of the season and it is important to keep your nerve and stick to your plan,» said Farke.
“I think the first half was fantastic, we should have been higher than 2-0, we missed a lot of chances.
«We were a bit sleepy during one set-piece. United are a team packed with top players who can bring quality from the bench later in the match.»
«It is difficult to get over the line as a newly promoted team. Big compliment for the entire group.»
Farke claimed Leeds’ impressive performance in their first league win in seven games underlined why they should be higher in the table.
“It’s a sign of why we should be in a much better position performance-wise,” he said.
«This team has performed with incredible consistency all season. A win is always good for mood, for confidence and also for the table.»
«I think it’s the first win here in over forty years. It’s great, and of course a big step forward.»
In the first season back in the Premier League after promotion from the Championship, Leeds are on course to maintain their top-flight status.
It is also his first FA Cup semi-final appearance since 1987 to look forward to against Chelsea at Wembley on April 26.
«We have to remain humble. We are not perfect. We are not the finished product,» Farke said. “We are on the right track, on track to achieve something very positive this season.”
Published on April 14, 2026
