Going into this summer, the question of if Leeds United will sign another goalkeeper still makes the headlines. The club would have thought this issue was over last summer.
The Whites brought in Lucas Perri from Lyon on a significant fee, with the Brazilian expected to solve the club’s problems.
But after a solid start, Perri’s injury ruined his rhythm during the season. That was when Karl Darlow stepped up and made his presence felt; Perri returned getting to the end of last year.
Unfortunately, he looked a shell of himself. And after Daniel Farke benched him for frequent errors, Darlow was in goal for the rest of the season.
Leeds United star posts statement after Elland Road exit
One Leeds United player who has been at the short end of this whole goalkeeping issue is Illan Meslier.
Since he was benched in the run in leading to the Whites winning the Championship, he has slipped down to third choice goalkeeper. He did not make a single appearance this season and played for the U21s.
Leeds announced that he would leave Elland Road after a long spell at the club.
Over the weekend, Meslier posted a long statement on Instagram thanking Leeds fans for his time at the club.
”I just wanted to take a moment to send this farewell message to every single Leeds United fan. When I arrived at this club in 2019 as a 19-year-old kid, I had no idea what was ahead of me. What I found was a club like no other, a fanbase with a passion that is truly unmatched, and a place that has shaped me into the goalkeeper and the man I am today.”
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Illan Meslier’s final years could have been better
Meslier is not leaving Elland Road on the best note, his final year was spent on the bench after failed summer moves.
A far cry from what he was at the start of his career; a highly-rated French goalkeeper tipped to make the national team – he was even pursued by Chelsea before making the move to West Yorkshire.
For all his mistakes in the final seasons at Elland Road, he served the club for most of the time he was there.
And from his farewell statement, it is clear he still has a soft spot for Leeds fans for having him in England.
Bye