Mark Hateley has warned Leeds United supporters to rein in their European ambitions, labelling talk of the Champions League as a "dangerous target" for the newly-established Premier League side. The former striker's comments come as Daniel Farke's team sits fifth in the table with nine points from five unbeaten games, having scored 8 goals and conceded 5, giving them a goal difference of plus 3.

Hateley, who made six appearances for Leeds on loan in 1996, acknowledged the positive start but pointed to the underlying numbers. He noted that while the points return is solid, the team's recent form shows they have drawn three of their last four matches, indicating the fine margins at this level. He stressed that sustained success requires more than early-season momentum. "They need good fortune," Hateley said. "I still think it’s early days to be looking at the Champions League and all that sort of stuff, it can become a dangerous target for a relatively new Premier League side."

Leeds have begun the 2026/27 campaign with two wins and three draws, one of only five top-flight teams yet to lose. Their last outing was a goalless draw at home to Crystal Palace on 20 September, a game in which they managed 14 shots but only 3 on target. He argued a side promoted from the Championship needs two or three seasons of consolidation, aiming first for a stable mid-table position, before setting sights any higher.

Focus on competitiveness

Hateley's advice is for the club to build a stable foundation and set incremental goals. "I think the focus for Leeds has to be on creating an atmosphere and ensuring their team is really competitive over the full 90 minutes, week in, week out," he said. "Should I say top 10? I think they are more than capable. But dreaming of anything else, you’ve got to be careful."

The former England international also highlighted the importance of Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness to Leeds's prospects. Any injury to him, Hateley suggested, could leave the squad in a difficult position, especially after the club failed to add significant depth in attack over the summer despite being linked with several forwards.

Manager Daniel Farke is reportedly in line for a new contract following the strong start, with talks said to be progressing positively. The team's immediate focus shifts to a tough away fixture against second-placed Arsenal on 10 October. Fans can check the full upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page and view the current standings.

More detail at TEAMtalk