Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe has ended speculation surrounding Daniel Farke’s position by confirming the German will remain in charge for their return to the English Premier League.
Farke’s future had been the subject of growing uncertainty despite leading the Elland Road club to automatic promotion last month.
Reports had suggested doubts within the hierarchy over his previous top-flight record with Norwich City, where he suffered two relegations.
However, after Leeds sealed the English Championship title on Saturday with a 2–1 win at Plymouth Argyle – their sixth straight victory – Marathe moved to publicly back Farke, insisting the club were always aligned behind the 48-year-old.
"I do have something to say and, and you know, I am someone who will speak when I have something to say and and when I feel like it's the right time for me," Marathe, who is a pivotal figure in Rangers expected US takeover, told reporters.
Read more:
-
Barry Ferguson sets unwanted Rangers record after Celtic draw
-
Rangers hero Scott Arfield left starstruck by 90s pop icon after Falkirk promotion
"I'm not one to respond because some random gossip paper wants to say something. I'm not going to make comments based on rumours and gossip. But now, today is that day.
“I was waiting for the season to conclude. I wanted to win a trophy, just like Daniel did, just like the players did, just like all the staff did, and we got that goal.
“My plan was always to come and speak to you all right after the season concluded, and so that time is now, and I want to tell you all that I'm very excited to run it back with Daniel.
“I'm really excited about collaborating with Daniel, with Robbie Evans, who we promoted to managing director, with Adam Underwood, who we promoted to sporting director, and together, we are going to build the best squad that we can with every penny that we're allowed to spend to go and compete in the Premier League."
Leeds edged out Burnley to the Championship crown on goal difference after both clubs passed the 100-point mark. Despite a stutter in March – when Farke’s side managed just one win in five matches – the Farke steadied the ship to guide them over the line.
Marathe praised Farke’s composure during the run-in, describing him as “a calming force” for players and fans alike. He also explained the club’s silence amid the speculation was a conscious decision.
"He is such a calming force. You know, presence would be an understatement if I say calming presence, he's just a calming force for supporters, for players, for the club," he revealed.
"He really has a superpower that way. He told you all he was 100 per cent confident that we're going to the Prem, and he believed it. I love him for it. He has that conviction and belief.
“We continue to stay in touch all the time. I did tell him privately that I'm looking forward to moving forward together, and I just didn't feel like it was my time to speak just because someone wanted to put out a rumour or whatever.
"It wasn't my place in time to speak at that point. But I did talk to him privately."
