Sometimes football history has a way of coming back to the present, and that’s exactly what happened recently with Leeds United captain Ethan Ampadu.
A picture shared by his ex-partner showing their son wearing a Galatasaray jersey sparked a wave of backlash from some Leeds fans — a reminder of the bitter feelings between the two clubs dating back 25 years.
The Tragic History Between Leeds and Galatasaray Still Runs Deep
Back in 2000, Leeds fans Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight tragically lost their lives during violent clashes ahead of a UEFA Cup semi-final match in Istanbul against Galatasaray.
The incident left a lasting scar on the Leeds community and created intense animosity between supporters of both clubs — feelings that still linger strongly today.
The Controversial Photo and Fan Backlash
Earlier this week, Ampadu’s ex-girlfriend, Saara Sa, posted a photo on social media of their child wearing the Galatasaray kit.
The image quickly spread among Leeds supporters, many of whom felt it was insensitive given the club’s painful history with Galatasaray.
Some fans even called for Ampadu to be stripped of his captaincy.
One fan wrote on X, “He shouldn’t be our club captain anymore.
The captain has to be more aware of things like this.”
Leeds United Steps Up to Defend Their Captain
Leeds United responded swiftly, making it clear that they stand behind their captain.
The club emphasized that Ampadu had no involvement in the photo’s posting, as he and Saara Sa separated months ago.
In a statement, Leeds said: “Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families.
He has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, showing commitment to the club, its history, and the Leeds community. Ethan has our full support.”
The club also respectfully asked for privacy for Ampadu during this difficult time and confirmed they would not be commenting further.
Ampadu’s Role as Captain and Connection to Leeds
Ethan Ampadu was given the Leeds captaincy at the start of this season and has been actively involved in honoring the memory of Loftus and Speight.
Earlier this year, he participated in ceremonies laying shirts and flowers during the 25th anniversary of the tragedy.
Ampadu joined Leeds in 2023 after the club was relegated from the Premier League.
His football journey started in Exeter City’s academy, before he signed for Chelsea as a teenager.
Though he made his Wales international debut in 2017 and has earned over 50 caps, his Chelsea career involved multiple loan spells rather than a regular first-team place.
The Lingering Impact of the 2000 Tragedy on Fans
The loss of Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus remains a deeply felt wound in Leeds.
The violence and tension between Leeds and Galatasaray fans, especially during that 2000 semi-final, continue to shape fan relations today.
Police at the time arrested and charged four Galatasaray supporters with murder.
As a result, Galatasaray fans were banned from the second-leg game at Elland Road, which Galatasaray ultimately won on their way to lifting the UEFA Cup trophy.
When Past Players Stir Controversy by Joining Rival Clubs
The bitter rivalry has affected other players too.
Harry Kewell, a Leeds legend, faced backlash when he moved to Galatasaray from Liverpool in 2008.
At the time, he acknowledged the tragedy but said he wanted to move on, praising the club and city.
Leeds United’s Bright Future Ahead
Despite the current controversy, Leeds have much to celebrate.
The club secured the Championship title this season with 100 points and will be back in the Premier League next season — ready to take on the challenges ahead.