Liam Cooper Removed as Leeds United Captain After Nearly a Decade of Leadership
In a landmark decision at Elland Road, Leeds United have confirmed the removal of Liam Cooper as club captain ahead of the 2025/26 season. The 32-year-old Scottish defender, who has led the side since 2017, has been relieved of the armband in what is being described as a transitional move by manager Daniel Farke as the club pushes to return to the Premier League.
The announcement has sparked widespread reflection among fans, players, and pundits alike, as Cooper’s tenure as captain defined an era of growth, resilience, and unforgettable moments at Leeds United.
A Chapter Closes
Liam Cooper’s reign as captain began under former boss Thomas Christiansen, but it was under Marcelo Bielsa that he truly came into his own. A leader both on and off the pitch, Cooper was instrumental in guiding Leeds back to the Premier League in 2020 after a 16-year absence. His vocal presence, calmness in defence, and deep passion for the club made him a natural leader.
Through highs and lows, including relegation heartbreaks, managerial upheavals, and dramatic promotions, Cooper remained a constant symbol of grit and professionalism. However, with injuries limiting his impact in recent seasons and the club undergoing tactical and structural changes under Daniel Farke, the time for a new leader has come.
Farke Explains the Decision
Speaking during the club’s pre-season media day, manager Daniel Farke addressed the reasoning behind the leadership shift.
“Liam has been a fantastic captain and an outstanding servant to this football club. He leads by example, and his contributions are beyond measure,” said Farke. “But we are entering a new chapter—a younger, more dynamic squad is forming, and we need to appoint a captain who is at the centre of that evolution week in, week out.”
Farke emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of Cooper’s character or commitment but a “strategic footballing choice” based on consistency and fitness.
Cooper Responds With Dignity
Cooper, ever the professional, responded with characteristic humility and maturity. In a message shared via the club’s official platforms, he expressed gratitude and optimism:
“Wearing the armband for this great club has been the honour of my life. I’ve lived every moment with pride, passion, and love for the badge,” Cooper said. “While I’m no longer captain, my leadership won’t stop. I’ll continue to give everything I have to support my teammates and push this club back to where it belongs.”
He also thanked the fans for their unwavering support, saying:
“You’ve been with me every step of the way. We’ve shared incredible highs and painful lows together. I’ll forever be grateful.”
Who Will Lead Leeds Forward?
With Cooper stepping back from captaincy duties, attention now turns to who will succeed him. The top contenders reportedly include midfield dynamo Ethan Ampadu, dependable defender Pascal Struijk, and experienced goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Farke has hinted that the next captain will be someone “young but already experienced at the Championship and international level”—a description that fits Ampadu perfectly. The Wales international, only 24, has emerged as a vocal and consistent figure under Farke’s system.
A final decision on the new captain is expected to be announced before the team heads on its pre-season tour.
Fan Reaction
The Leeds fanbase, known for its passion and loyalty, responded with mixed emotions. While many acknowledged the need for evolution, the removal of a player so closely tied to the club’s recent success was met with sentiment and gratitude.
“Liam Cooper is more than a captain—he’s one of us. A warrior, a leader, a class act. Thank you for everything, Coops,” one supporter posted on social media.
“It’s the right time for change, but let’s never forget what Cooper has done for this club. From the Championship to the Premier League—he was at the heart of it,” said another.
Calls have already begun for the club to honour Cooper’s legacy, potentially with a testimonial match or a leadership role within the club after his playing days.
What’s Next for Cooper?
Despite losing the armband, Cooper remains under contract and is expected to play a rotational role in the squad this season. His experience will be invaluable to younger defenders, and his dressing room presence continues to be seen as a crucial asset.
There are also reports that Farke views Cooper as a potential future member of the coaching staff once he retires. Having spent over a decade at Leeds and forged a deep connection with the club’s culture, Cooper is widely expected to remain part of the club in some capacity.
Legacy of a Leader
Cooper’s tenure as Leeds United captain may be over, but his legacy is deeply etched into the club’s modern history. From lifting the Championship trophy in 2020 to leading the team through dramatic Premier League battles, he has been a symbol of loyalty, resilience, and growth.
Unlike many footballers who pass through clubs with little attachment, Cooper became part of the very fabric of Leeds United. He was not just a player or a captain—he was a bridge between eras, helping the club reclaim its place among English football’s elite.
Conclusion
Liam Cooper’s removal as Leeds United captain marks the end of an era, but it also signals the dawn of a new one. While the armband will be passed on, the spirit, lessons, and leadership Cooper brought to Elland Road will live on through the next generation of players.
Whether on the pitch or supporting from the bench, Cooper remains a central figure in the club’s identity—forever a captain in the hearts of Leeds fans.
