Leeds United’s Rising Star Stuns Scouts – Hailed as the Next Harry Kane by Italian Media
Leeds United Delight Fans with Dominant Display and Debut of Rising Star Harry Gray
Even the most pessimistic Leeds United fans would’ve found it tough to fault anything from a glorious Sunday at Elland Road—well, aside from the slightly chilly weather.
In the early kick-off, Daniel Farke’s side delivered a crushing 6-0 win over Stoke City, doing everything in their power to keep the promotion push on track. Later in the day, Burnley’s narrow victory over Sheffield United confirmed Leeds would finish the weekend comfortably within the Premier League places.
The day was particularly historic for Joel Piroe, who bagged an incredible four goals in the first half alone. His performance not only lifted him above Norwich City’s Borja Sainz in the race for the Golden Boot but also brought Leeds one step closer to ending a near-decade-long wait for a top scorer—last achieved by Chris Wood under Garry Monk.
Yet, what made the day truly special was the debut of Harry Gray. At just 16 years old, he became the fourth-youngest debutant in club history, continuing a proud family tradition. Following in the footsteps of his brother Archie, father Andy, grandfather Frank, and great uncle Eddie, Harry ensured this match would be remembered as a milestone in both Leeds and Gray family history.
European Eyes Turn to Harry Gray After Sensational Debut
Despite being careful not to heap pressure on the young forward, Daniel Farke has already emphasized that Harry Gray is a key figure in both the immediate and long-term plans at Elland Road.
Some are even beginning to wonder if Harry—not his now £35 million-rated brother Archie—is the most talented Gray currently on the pitch.
A natural striker, Harry has scored three times in his last four Premier League 2 matches, regularly outplaying defenders far older and more experienced than him.
His emergence hasn’t gone unnoticed. Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb featured him in their ‘Talent of the Day’ spotlight—an honor previously given to Liverpool’s Trey Nyoni, Arsenal’s Max Dowman, and Manchester United’s Diego Leon.
“Regarded as one of the brightest prospects in England’s youth system,” they wrote, “his strength lies in his clinical finishing. He strikes with precision and power using both feet, and has drawn comparisons to Michael Owen for his technique in front of goal.”
Comparisons to Michael Owen and Harry Kane
That Michael Owen comparison originally came from former Leeds prospect Andy Wright, who told The Athletic just how special Gray’s finishing ability is.
“It’s the kind of finishing that’s not normal,” said Wright. “He hits the ball clean with both feet. His right is unbelievable, but even with his left, the ball just rockets into the net. It’s like a bullet.”
Wright went as far as to say Gray is better than many of the top talents he played with in his own youth career—adding that, in terms of finishing, the teen is on par with the likes of a young Michael Owen.
Tuttomercatoweb added to the hype, likening Gray’s versatile and deadly goal-scoring to none other than England captain Harry Kane. The comparison draws on Gray’s ability to finish with either foot and his composure in front of goal—hallmarks of Kane’s early days at Spurs.
With such high praise and growing attention across Europe, Harry Gray’s debut might just be the start of something very special for both Leeds United and English football.
