Leeds United Coach Daniel Farke Announces Departure After Final Victory Following Kidney Failure Diagnosis
Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke has publicly announced his departure from the club following what proved to be his final match in charge, a hard-fought victory that was met with both celebration and deep emotion at Elland Road. The announcement came shortly after the game, when Farke revealed that he has been advised by his medical team to step away from football due to a confirmed kidney failure diagnosis.
The German coach, who has been widely praised for his professionalism and calm authority since arriving at Leeds, addressed supporters in a heartfelt statement that quickly spread across the football world. According to Farke, the decision was not taken lightly but followed weeks of medical assessments and consultations with specialists who warned that continuing in such a high-pressure role could pose serious risks to his long-term health.
“Football has always been my passion, and Leeds United has become a special part of my life,” Farke said. “But after listening carefully to my doctors and my family, I have been advised that my health must now come first. This is the most difficult decision of my career, but it is the right one.”
The news cast a poignant shadow over what was otherwise a triumphant afternoon for Leeds United. The team delivered a spirited performance, securing a crucial victory that underlined Farke’s impact and tactical clarity. Players celebrated passionately at full time, many of them visibly emotional as they embraced their manager, aware that it would be the last time he led them from the touchline.
Farke’s time at Leeds has been marked by resilience, discipline, and a clear footballing identity. He inherited a squad under intense pressure and guided it through turbulent moments with composure. Under his leadership, Leeds rediscovered structure and belief, earning praise not only for results but also for their style of play and unity as a group. For many supporters, his tenure symbolized stability during a challenging chapter in the club’s recent history.
In his farewell address, Farke made special mention of the players and supporters, crediting them for giving him strength during a period when he was privately battling health concerns. “The players gave everything for me, even when they didn’t know what I was dealing with,” he said. “And the supporters—your energy, your belief, your noise—those are things I will carry with me forever.”
Leeds United released an official statement shortly after the announcement, confirming the coach’s departure and expressing full support for his recovery. The club described Farke as “a true professional and an outstanding leader,” adding that his health and well-being are the club’s immediate priority. Senior figures within Leeds emphasized that the door will always remain open for him in the future, in whatever capacity he may wish, once his health allows.
Players also took to social media to pay tribute to their departing manager. Several described him as a mentor and father figure, someone who believed in them during difficult moments and pushed them to reach higher standards. Team captain Ethan Ampadu called Farke “an inspiration on and off the pitch,” while others thanked him for restoring pride and direction at the club.
Medical experts have noted that kidney failure can be a serious condition requiring strict management, reduced stress, and, in some cases, long-term treatment. While Farke did not go into specific details about his prognosis, he confirmed that he will now focus entirely on recovery and spending time with his family.
As Leeds United begin the search for a new head coach, the focus remains firmly on honoring Daniel Farke’s contribution and wishing him strength in the months ahead. His final victory will be remembered not just as a result on the scoreboard, but as a moment of courage, honesty, and dignity.
For Daniel Farke, the chapter at Leeds United closes with respect and admiration. For the club and its supporters, his legacy will endure as that of a manager who gave everything—right until the very end.
