Paraag Marathe sends emotional message as Leeds United exit confirmed
Paraag Marathe says Liam Cooper “really showed what side over self means” in an emotional farewell message from the Leeds United chairman.
The Whites announced Cooper is to leave Elland Road after 10-year spell on Wednesday, ahead of a switch to Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia.
Marathe featured in a video posted on Leeds’ official website (11 September) where he paid tribute to the departing club captain.
Marathe said: “I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have brought and meant to this special club.
“I saw the way that you carried yourself with dignity and grace, and respect for everybody.
“And you really showed me what ‘side before self’ actually means.”
Time for Ethan Ampadu to step up leadership role at Leeds United
As Cooper leaves the club after seven years as captain, Ethan Ampadu takes his place as the leader in the dressing room.
The Welshman has played an integral role in both defence and midfield for the Yorkshire side since joining in 2023 and will be looking to replicate his predecessor’s success with the armband.
Ampadu was one of the best players in the Championship last season and has relished a central role so far this season.
Defensively, Leeds look solid, with the 23-year-old playing in front of new vice captain Pascal Struijk, who has managed three clean sheets in a row in the league.
Cooper will be a figure missed by many at Elland Road, but his replacement could lead the Whites back to the promised land.
If he does, then – just like Cooper – Ampadu would go down in Leeds folklore. It will be a long, arduous season but there is no reason why Ampadu cannot step up and emulate Cooper in captaining a Leeds side back to the Premier League.
In other Leeds news, Daniel Farke is eyeing a new defender.
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