Leeds United have had some standout players under Daniel Farke. However, one player has been a constant in the last few years.
Daniel Farke has made a solid start to the season, scoring four goals in seven Premier League games, and a few new signings have looked brilliant too.
James Trafford has sorted out their goalkeeping issues, and Tarik Muharemovic has emerged as the team’s defensive star months after joining the club.
However, if you ask Daniel Farke who his most important player is, he’s unlikely to pick anyone but his captain, Ethan Ampadu.
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Former Leeds star concedes he got Ethan Ampadu badly wrong
Matthew Kilgallon revealed he heard nothing positive about Ampadu when he was on loan at Sheffield United from Chelsea.
However, the former Leeds defender admitted that the Welshman’s impact on the Leeds team as a player and captain is unquestionable. He stressed that he is the team’s standout player and undisputed leader, on and off the pitch.
“When you went to watch him at Sheffield United, he went on loan there; it didn’t work for him. I know a few lads that have played at Sheffield United and spoke to a few people. I’m saying, ‘who’s this Ampadu, he looks way off it at the minute?’”, Matthew Kilgallon said.
“Now he’s come to Leeds United, and what a player. Captain, leader, doesn’t miss a game, will play centre-half, will play centre-mid. Honestly, I haven’t seen him have a bad game. Every game he has, he’s a seven minimum. He’s just leading that team.
“There’s a great changing room there at Leeds United. I think he’s the one who sorts that out. I think he’s a leader on and off the pitch. I can’t speak highly enough of him. I think they laughed the other day that he doesn’t score enough, but he does everything else that people may not see as much – them tackles, the runs back.
“He’s been an absolute standout player for Leeds United. Leeds have had some good players so far this season, but Ampadu has stood out. He really has.”
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Ampadu is Daniel Farke’s embodiment on the pitch
Ethan Ampadu’s importance to Leeds United goes well beyond wearing the captain’s armband.
He is the sort of player every successful team needs: composed under pressure, tactically intelligent and willing to put his body on the line when things get difficult. His ability to read danger, break up opposition attacks and keep possession moving gives Leeds a vital presence in midfield and, when required, at the back.
As captain, Ampadu sets the tone through his performances rather than relying on grand gestures. He takes on responsibility, leads by example, and gives his teammates someone to trust when matches become chaotic. His composure on the ball also helps Leeds play with confidence against stronger opponents.
That influence has been recognised beyond the dressing room, too. Ampadu won both Leeds’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards for 2025-26, underscoring how highly supporters and teammates regard him.
