Leeds United forward Wilfried Gnonto has signed a contract extension through to 2028, a move that has delighted both the club and fans.
Paul Robinson, the former Leeds goalkeeper, believes that the young Italian’s recent progress is largely due to the influence of head coach Daniel Farke.
Gnonto, who joined Leeds in 2022, has made a significant impact since his arrival. In just over a year, he has accumulated more than 63 appearances for the club and earned a place in the Italian national team.
His standout achievement came when he became Italy’s youngest scorer, finding the net against Germany in a UEFA Nations League qualifier at just 18 years old.
The 20-year-old’s new four-year contract underscores his commitment to Leeds, despite considerable interest from other clubs.
Last summer, when Leeds were relegated to the Championship, many players left the club, and Gnonto was linked with a move to Everton. However, he chose to remain at Elland Road.
Under Farke, Gnonto has become a key player, particularly as an impact substitute. Last season, he contributed eight goals and two assists in the Championship.
Farke has praised Gnonto’s development, highlighting the work done to enhance his versatility and on-field intelligence.
“We’ve worked a lot with Willy in recent months,” Farke said.
“We want him to be more flexible in his movements, so he covers different positions and isn’t too static. We work a lot with him individually and show him different scenes. He was, at times, unplayable.
“He’s still a young player and can be a bit smarter to handle some situations on the pitch. A step forward from him but one we expect from a player of his calibre.”
Robinson expressed his pleasure at Gnonto’s contract extension, attributing the forward’s improved performance to Farke’s management.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson remarked, “It’s hugely important for the club. I think it’s important for the club to protect their own assets, too. He had a huge turnaround last season after saying he wouldn’t play in pre-season.
“The manager’s man-management of the player has got the best out of him between then and the end of the season, getting him back to playing. Within 12 months, to get him to sign a new contract shows how good the player’s relationship is with Farke.”
Robinson continued: “Now, he’s starting every game and playing well. He looks in a really good place, so I’m not surprised they’ve given him a new contract. From the player’s point of view, it’s a reward for him knuckling down, getting his head around the situation, and taking on the challenge.”
Gnonto’s new deal is seen as a significant step for both player and club, reinforcing Leeds’ intent to build around their emerging star while acknowledging the positive impact of Farke’s coaching.