Leeds United has publicly offered support for their captain, Ethan Ampadu, following the emergence of a picture online showing his son wearing a Galatasaray jersey.
This situation carries particular sensitivity for the club and its fans due to the tragic events in April 2000, when two Leeds supporters, Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, were killed ahead of a UEFA Cup semi-final match against the Turkish side.
Ampadu`s former partner posted the image of their son in the Galatasaray kit on Thursday, shortly after the Turkish team secured the Turkish Cup by beating Trabzonspor 3-0.
The social media post quickly provoked negative reactions from some Leeds fans.
The club was prompt in releasing a statement to defend Ampadu.
“Leeds United are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu’s son,” the statement read. “Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question.”
“Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families. The club asks for Ethan’s privacy to be respected in what is a difficult time for him personally.”
Ampadu, who is 24, joined Leeds from Chelsea in the summer of 2023. He has established himself as a key player and captain, becoming a fan favourite in West Yorkshire. He played a vital role in the team accumulating 100 points this season during their Championship campaign.
A video caption related to team celebrations:
Inside Leeds stars` wild title celebrations as Bamford and Ampadu `leave Burnley fanbase in meltdown` with karaoke song
The club`s statement further added: “Our captain has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, demonstrating his commitment to the club, its history, and the broader Leeds community. Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds United. The club will be making no further comment.”
Ampadu has previously shown his respect for the victims of the 2000 tragedy. Earlier this season, he participated in events commemorating the 25th anniversary of their deaths, including laying flowers for Loftus and Speight at Luton`s Kenilworth Road.
However, on Thursday, Ampadu`s ex-partner, identified as Saara Sa, posted on Instagram claiming Leeds` statement presented a “false narrative.”
Her post stated: “My condolences are with the families of the two people who passed away in Istanbul. I am Turkish and our son is part Turkish.”
“Galatasaray is my family’s supporting home team and has been for years.”
“We are the parents of our child and Ethan was aware of the photo. I would appreciate if Leeds United football club would not portray a false narrative by making a statement stating lies.”
