Pundit View: Leeds have told player he’s now the main man to stop him quitting Elland Rd
David Norris believes Leeds United have assured Willy Gnonto he is now the focal point of the team after securing his new contract.
Italian international Wilfried Gnonto recently signed a new four-year contract with Leeds United, following the close of the summer transfer window.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke successfully retained the 20-year-old forward, who has made an impressive start to the season.
Last year, Gnonto attempted to force a move by refusing to play, a transfer that never materialized.
Over the summer, he watched teammates Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, and Archie Gray leave for Premier League clubs in big-money transfers.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, former Leeds midfielder David Norris suggested that the new contract serves as an incentive to keep Gnonto committed to the club.
He believes Gnonto should now be molded into a key player: “I believe the new deal straight after the deadline is to keep him onside, as obviously he didn’t get his move.
I think now they are telling him he can be the main man, and I’m sure they can get the very best out of him now.
His attitude seems to have progressed from last year, and it keeps his mindset focused on the game.”
Norris also mentioned that the club may have been hesitant to trust Gnonto fully, given his previous behavior, and that the new contract helps ensure his head is in the right place.
Leeds United’s decision to extend Gnonto’s contract on improved terms is a significant boost for the club.
Norris likely has a point—Gnonto would have accepted a Premier League move if the opportunity had arisen, but at this stage in his career, he now has the chance to become the star player at one of the biggest clubs outside the Premier League.
Gnonto should seize this opportunity, especially considering the mistakes of his past, where poor advice led to damaged trust with the fanbase.
Fans are now delighted to see him not only staying at Leeds past the transfer deadline but also signing a new contract and embracing the club’s badge with renewed enthusiasm.
Interest in Gnonto is unlikely to disappear, given his talent.
However, if Leeds can fend off January inquiries, promotion could give them more control overhis future.
