Ex-Leeds United veteran Liam Cooper has joined CSKA Sofia, marking his first move to a new club since 2014, when he played for Chesterfield in the 2013-14 season.
The 33-year-old’s departure from Elland Road signals the end of a decade-long chapter, having been a key figure for Leeds since his arrival in 2014. Cooper made 284 appearances for The Whites during his tenure, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in all competitions.
He was also a crucial part of the squad that secured promotion to the Premier League by winning the EFL Championship in the 2019-20 season. On Wednesday, Leeds published a heartfelt letter from Cooper to the fans as he bid them farewell.
“When I arrived at LUFC I had one ambition and that was to leave the shirt in a better position than when I arrived,” Cooper wrote. “I do believe I have done that, with the help and support of some incredible people…
“I leave the Club proud of what we achieved together, I was never perfect, but throughout my time I tried to represent you and the club with dignity and modesty at all times.”
Daniel Farke comments on Liam Cooper saying goodbye
In his pre-match press conference on Thursday before this weekend’s game against Burnley, Daniel Farke took a moment to honor Cooper.
After it was announced on Wednesday afternoon that Cooper would be heading to a new club abroad, the Leeds United manager quickly expressed his admiration for his former captain again.
“It was a pleasure and a privilege to be allowed to be his manager for the last 12 months,” Farke said. “I’ve also played several times against him, also in his prime. So what can I say? A fantastic footballer, a fantastic human being, an unbelievable person. He’s a real club legend.
“What he has done for this club in the last decade is more or less second to none. He fits our mantra, side before self. And, yes, he will always be with us, also in our hearts, and will always be a club legend.
“What he has done for this club, will live forever. From the bottom of my heart, I wish him all the best for the future, for whatever comes up, and probably also some exciting tasks.”
