Leeds United will welcome a host of teams back to Elland Road for the first time in a few years next season - and with it more than a dozen former players could walk out in front of fans who used to sing their name. Some left with the best wishes of those in West Yorkshire but it would be fair to say plenty didn’t, and football fans have long memories.
Promotion back to the Premier League will put Daniel Farke’s side into battle with the best and any chance of survival will lean strongly on the continuation of their incredible recent home form. The visit of Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton, Bournemouth and plenty others to Leeds will see former players walk out in front of a fiery Elland Road crowd, with fans ready to make their voices heard.
While some understandably left during bleak times in West Yorkshire, others seemingly jumped at the chance to move on via the triggering of release clauses following relegation. Below, the YEP has taken a look at the 16 former players who could be welcomed - or not so much - back to Elland Road next season.
1. Jaidon Anthony - Brentford (August 30)
Spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Leeds before registering an impressive eight goals and two assists in the Premier League for Burnley last season. Has since joined Brentford for around £20m. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Eddie Nketiah - Crystal Palace (September 19)
Initially joined on loan for the 2019/20 title-winning season but was recalled halfway through due to a lack of minutes. Left Arsenal for Palace in a £30m deal in 2024 summer but still struggling for regular football. | Getty Images
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3. Karl Darlow - Manchester United (October 17)
Darlow became the first player in 22 years to swap Leeds for Manchester this week, leaving Elland Road after his contract expired. The Welshman was first-choice last season but the YEP understands he could not be guaranteed a similar standing going forward. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Djed Spence - Tottenham Hotspur (November 7)
Spent the first-half of the 2023/24 season on loan at Elland Road but was sent back early by Daniel Farke. Has enjoyed a real renaissance at Spurs, playing regularly and impressing enough to earn an England call-up for the World Cup. | Getty Images
5. Archie Gray - - Tottenham Hotspur (November 7)
Leeds' academy star left for Spurs in a £40m deal in 2024 and has continued to develop, albeit with first-team minutes limited. Will be interesting to see where he stands amid Tottenham's busy summer window so far. | Getty Images
6. Matt Grimes - Coventry City (November 28)
The midfielder spent the 2016/17 season on loan at Leeds but played just seven Championship games. Captained Coventry to promotion last season. | Getty Images