Going into last season, Daniel Farke knew things would not be easy. Leeds United had just missed out on promotion to the Premier League, losing the Championship play-off final.
On top of that, the club lost several of their top players before the new campaign even started.
Big names left Elland Road, and many fans feared the worst. The feeling around the club was negative.
Pundits were not tipping Leeds to go straight back up. Some even thought they could struggle to finish in the play-off places.
As the season got closer, Farke made it clear he wanted help. He spoke openly about needing new signings.
The squad was thin, and quality had walked out the door. Leeds needed fresh faces, and fast.
Eventually, the club acted. New players arrived late in the window, including Manor Solomon, Ao Tanaka, and Joe Rothwell.
These signings did not excite everyone at first, but they soon proved their worth.
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Manor Solomon Shone in the Championship
Out of all the summer arrivals, Solomon quickly stood out. Many fans were unsure what to expect from him, but he settled in fast.
His pace, movement, and direct style caused problems for defenders every week.
Solomon became one of Leeds United’s most important players that season. He scored goals, created chances, and often changed games.
In a side that needed confidence, he brought energy and belief.
Alongside him, Tanaka became a key part of midfield, while Rothwell gave depth and threat from set-pieces.
These players helped Leeds stay competitive when expectations were low.
By the end of the season, Solomon was seen as a fan favourite. Naturally, the talk started about whether Leeds should try to keep him long-term.
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Summer Links Came, But Leeds Stayed Calm
When the season ended, links quickly appeared about Solomon returning to Elland Road. Many supporters wanted it to happen.
He had done well in England, and some felt he could step up again if Leeds reached the Premier League.
However, despite the rumours, Leeds never made a serious move. No official bid arrived. Solomon, who was still owned by Tottenham, waited for options.
He wanted to stay in England, but time ran out. Late in the window, Villarreal came calling.
The Spanish side offered European football and a chance to test himself at a higher level. In the end, Solomon accepted the move.
On paper, it looked like progress. Villarreal were playing in the Champions League, and La Liga is seen as a top league. Many believed Solomon would kick on.
Spain Has Been a Reality Check for Solomon
At first, things looked promising. Solomon got some early minutes and even made a small impact. But as the weeks passed, his role started to fade.
He struggled to hold down a starting spot. Appearances became short cameos from the bench. Goals and assists dried up.
Since autumn, his influence has been very limited.
Recently, frustration has grown among Villarreal supporters. After a poor showing in a cup match, some fans were openly angry.
Social media reaction was brutal, with calls for the club to end his loan early.
For a player who looked so comfortable in the Championship, the step up has proven difficult.
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The 49ers May Have Avoided a Big Mistake
Looking back now, Leeds’ decision not to chase Solomon makes more sense.
While fans often criticise the owners for being careful in the transfer market, this time caution may have paid off.
An expensive deal for a player struggling at the top level could have hurt the club badly. Instead, Leeds looked elsewhere.
Signings like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha were not popular at first.
Many fans groaned when their names were announced. But compared to Solomon’s struggles in Spain, those deals now look smarter.
Leeds United are still building, still learning, and still fighting. Not every decision will be perfect.
But this time, avoiding a big-money move for Solomon looks like the right call.
Sometimes, the best transfer is the one you don’t make.
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