What 49ers have said behind-the-scenes about how long they might actually own Leeds United — Leeds United News 9/5/24

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Danny Bloomer

49ers Enterprises will be eager for Leeds United to win promotion in their first season in charge so they can really flex their financial muscle.

The American franchise officially completed their full buyout of the club from Andrea Radrizzani last summer, agreeing a reduced figure after relegation from the Premier League 12 months ago.

Leeds are effectively set for a second shot at promotion starting this weekend having failed to finish in the Championship’s top two due to a dismal end to the campaign.

Daniel Farke’s side picked up just eight points from their final eight matches which meant they were pipped by Leicester City and Ipswich Town, but now have the play-offs to prepare for.

Leeds have failed to win promotion in all five of their play-off attempts during their history but will be hopeful now is finally their time.

With the squad of players Farke has had at his disposal this season, it would be seen as a failure if Leeds do not get promoted.

Having said that, Phil Hay does not believe Farke’s job would be in any danger if that was to happen, as they are an ownership group who are considerably rational in their thinking.

49ers have already acknowledged key sales would have to be made if Leeds remain in the Championship, but according to the Athletic, it will not deter their commitment to the club.

In an article this morning, it is said that the 49ers have often spoke behind-the-scenes of potentially owning Leeds for in excess of 10 years, as they view it as more of a long-term project.

With that in mind, it is also not seen as ‘promotion or bust’ this season, which should therefore offer some hope Leeds are well set regardless of their play-off outcome.

Leeds supporters will always be scarred when it comes to owners after the last 20 years, but it finally feels as though they have a group in charge who know what they’re doing, with the finances to go with it.

Ken Bates, GFH Capital and Massimo Cellino oversaw some tumultuous years at Elland Road, and even to a lesser extent, Radrizzani had his crazy moments.

But Leeds are finally in good hands with the 49ers and so that should give supporters confidence they can bounce back irrespective of this season.

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