Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck late on to hand Leeds United a dramatic 1-0 win against Brighton at Elland Road earlier today.
In their final home match of the campaign, Leeds gave the supporters a memorable finish, with Calvert-Lewin’s stoppage-time goal setting off wild celebrations inside the stadium.
Karl Darlow was also key to the victory after producing a brilliant first-half save that left even Peter Schmeichel amazed. There was concern midway through the second half, though, when Anton Stach was stretchered off after suffering a leg injury.
Eventually, the Leeds fans celebrated a dramatic late win. However, at the end of everything, it seemed clear that one star would not be returning to the stadium again.
‘Heartbreaking’ scenes as Illan Meslier appeared to be saying goodbye to Elland Road
A few Leeds players who were seen in the shirt today may have made their last appearance for the club at Elland Road, as a number of them will leave in the summer.
Sam Byram came on for what is likely to be his last appearance at Elland Road in injury time, and Joel Piroe also made a substitute appearance ahead of a summer transfer.
However, Illan Meslier didn’t even get that opportunity and was not even in the squad in what could be his last visit to Elland Road.
The French goalkeeper was spotted alone and despondent on the Elland Road pitch after the spectators had left the stadium.
Illan Meslier having a moment on his own on the Elland Road pitch before departing on a free transfer this summer.
A sad way for his time at the club to come to an end.#LUFC | #BBCFootball | @BBCWYS pic.twitter.com/Ps0WQLLK0d
— Jonathan Buchan (@jonathanbuchan) May 17, 2026
It was a heartbreaking moment, given that he has not played for Leeds this season and was firmly on the outside of Daniel Farke’s plans.
He appeared to have said goodbye to an empty Elland Road as the Frenchman will leave the club once his contract expires at the end of the season.
A sad end for the Frenchman
Illan Meslier still holds the club record for the most clean sheets in a single season and played a huge role in Leeds winning promotion under both Marcelo Bielsa and Daniel Farke.
He was also outstanding during the club’s first season back in the Premier League under Bielsa.
However, despite showing so much promise, he never quite fulfilled his full potential. Things then took a turn for the worse towards the end of last season when a difficult run of form led to him being dropped, and he has not managed to win his place back since.
Leeds tried to sell him in the last two windows, and he will now eventually leave on a free transfer, without the fanfare he may have deserved.
Thank you for your loyalty and commitment Illan … you deserved a better final day at Elland Road. I sincerely hope you find a new club very soon, and get back to doing what you do best … be a top goal keeper. All the best,