Welsh-Ghanaian Ethan Ampadu crowned Leeds Player of the Season

Ethan Ampadu capped a commanding 2025-26 campaign by collecting both the Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards at Leeds United’s end-of-season ceremony on Tuesday night, underlining his influence during a crucial survival fight.

The Whites captain was central to Leeds United’s successful bid to remain in the Premier League, with the club securing safety three matches before the end of the season.

Ampadu, who previously won the club’s top individual honour in 2024, now joins Gordon McQueen, Lee Bowyer and Jermaine Beckford as a two-time recipient of the award.

The Welsh international of Ghanaian descent featured 39 times across the campaign and delivered key contributions at both ends of the pitch, reinforcing his all-round importance to Daniel Farke’s side.

He scored in a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace at Elland Road and later produced the decisive assist for Lukas Nmecha’s 91st-minute winner against Fulham.

Elsewhere, Noah Okafor was named Performance Player of the Year after his standout display against Manchester United, where he scored twice to secure victory.

Okafor became the first Leeds player since Roque Junior in October 2003 to score a brace against Manchester United, and only the second ever to net twice at Old Trafford after Joe Firth in November 1931.

His recognition at the ceremony reflected a season in which he consistently led by example, particularly in high-pressure fixtures where Leeds’ Premier League status was on the line.

Supporters inside the club’s annual awards event reportedly acknowledged Ampadu’s consistency and resilience, with his influence extending beyond statistics to organisation, discipline and game management.

This season’s honours further strengthen his standing at Elland Road, where he has become a key figure since taking on the captaincy role.

Leeds will view Ampadu’s form as a stabilising factor heading into the next campaign, with his ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases expected to remain central to their plans.

His double award success highlights a season defined by leadership, consistency and decisive moments at key stages of the campaign.

Ampadu’s influence has also been reflected in Leeds’ dressing room culture, where his professionalism and work rate have been frequently praised by teammates and staff.