The club has approached its return with clear intent - pairing that momentum with one of the most proactive transfer windows among promoted sides. Farke, calm and assured throughout their rebuild, has restored direction and belief at Elland Road, and now leads a side that looks far better equipped than in 2023 to compete and stay up.

Leeds United fixtures 2025:

August 18: Leeds United v Everton

August 23: Arsenal v Leeds United

August 30: Leeds United v Newcastle

September 13: Fulham v Leeds United

September 20: Wolves v Leeds United

Leeds open their campaign at home under the Elland Road lights against Everton, a side that finished in the bottom half last season. A win here would ease tension and validate Leeds' top-flight readiness.

Five days later, they face a tough trip to Arsenal at the Emirates. Arsenal are expected to dominate, but the Whites will aim to stay compact and counterattack. If Farke's side have points from the opener, focus may shift to performance.

Back at Elland Road, they host Newcastle United, who will be in the Champions League this sesson. Newcastle will pose a physical and tactical challenge, so taking points here would signal Leeds' competitiveness.

After the international break, they travel to Fulham, a solid mid-table team, offering a key chance to secure points and assess survival prospects.

Finally, they do battle with Wolves at Molineux, a difficult venue, but their opponents-to-be's inconsistency provides Leeds a realistic opportunity. Two away games will test squad depth and momentum early on.

The club has strengthened well in the transfer window. Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw bolster the defence, Gabriel Gudmundsson adds depth on the left, and Lucas Perri will challenge for the goalkeeper spot. Midfield reinforcements include Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha provide a proven goal threat up front. Jack Harrison returns, and Liam Cooper remains as captain.

Notable departures include Junior Firpo - who has rejoined former club Real Betis permanently - and Max Wober - who has gone out on a season-long loan to Werder Bremen.

"The first games are always a test - not just of quality but of belief. We have our identity, and we'll carry it into every ground," said Farke.

Leeds return with confidence - and early results will go a long way in showing they're back not just to survive, but to stay.

Leeds United standings - Historic log positions

2020/21 - 9th

2021/22 - 17th

2022/23 - 19th

2023/24 - 3rd (Championship)

2024/25 - 1st (Championship)

Leeds United fixtures: Whites out to prove Premier League credentials after two-year rebuild