Patrick Bamford sent an emotional goodbye message to Leeds fans as his future takes a new twist
Patrick Bamford sent an emotional goodbye message to Leeds fans as his future takes a new twist
After nearly a decade of service and unforgettable moments in a Leeds United shirt, Patrick Bamford has announced his intention to leave the club, with a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) now firmly on the horizon. The 31-year-old striker, who joined Leeds in 2018, has been a central figure in the club’s journey through highs and lows, from the Championship grind to the glory of Premier League promotion and beyond.
Bamford’s time at Leeds has been marked by dedication, resilience, and a genuine bond with the fans. Arriving from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2018, he was among Marcelo Bielsa’s first signings and quickly became a key part of the Argentine manager’s plans. Though initially met with skepticism by some sections of the fanbase, Bamford silenced doubters with his tireless work rate, intelligent movement, and goal-scoring ability.
His standout season came in 2020-21, Leeds United’s first back in the Premier League after 16 years. Bamford scored 17 league goals that season, finishing as the club’s top scorer and playing a vital role in securing a top-half finish. His link-up play, pressing, and leadership made him a fan favorite and a symbol of the team’s hard-working ethos.
However, injuries and fluctuating form in the seasons that followed limited his impact. Despite those setbacks, Bamford remained a committed figure both on and off the pitch, often seen mentoring younger players and maintaining strong ties with supporters. As Leeds pushed for promotion back to the Premier League in the 2024-25 season under Daniel Farke, Bamford played a more limited role but continued to be a respected voice in the dressing room.
Now, with Leeds celebrating their return to the top flight, Bamford has decided that the time is right to close this chapter of his career and seek a new challenge in the United States. The striker is reportedly in advanced talks with multiple MLS clubs and is expected to finalize a deal in the coming weeks.
In a heartfelt message shared via his social media accounts, Bamford wrote:
“This club has meant everything to me. From the moment I walked through the doors at Elland Road in 2018, I felt the weight of its history and the passion of its people. Together, we’ve shared unforgettable memories – promotion, Premier League nights, and those special moments where the fans carried us through.
It’s not easy to say goodbye, but I know this is the right time for a new chapter. I’ll never forget what it meant to wear the white shirt, and I’ll always carry Leeds United with me. Thank you to every teammate, coach, staff member, and most importantly, the fans – you made it all worth it.”
Tributes have already begun pouring in from teammates, fans, and club officials, all recognizing Bamford’s contributions to the club over the past seven years. While his departure marks the end of an era, it also opens the door for a new adventure as he takes his talents to the MLS, where he hopes to continue playing at a high level and inspire a new generation of fans.
Leeds United, meanwhile, face a new Premier League campaign with fresh ambition and renewed energy. Bamford’s legacy at the club is secure – a player who gave everything for the badge and helped return Leeds to where they belong. His name will long echo through the stands of Elland Road.