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Leeds United were given a hero’s reception on Monday afternoon as more than 150,000 fans lined the city’s streets for a memorable open-top bus parade. Daniel Farke and his players crawled down Boar Lane, New Market Street and The Headrow to share in a moment of pure joy as supporters climbed trees, bus stops and lampposts, with yellow, white and blue smoke filling the sky.
A parade that was scheduled to last around one hour ended up going on for more than double that and as the buses edged along their route, a number of Leeds players were pulled aside by LUTV. Emotions were understandably running high as Patrick Bamford, Manor Solomon, Willy Gnonto and many more gave their thoughts on the incredible party unfolding before them.
A lot of lovely messages were sent by those interviewed and reflecting on an incredible day, the YEP has rounded up every word said by 10 Leeds players and chairman Parag Marathe. Take a look below for the pick of those quotes.
7. Joel Piroe
“It's just beautiful. I heard a lot of people would be here, but this many? I didn't know it would happen but it's beautiful. This is one of the biggest parties I’ve ever had.” | Getty Images
![“I've never seen something like this in my life. I just try to enjoy every moment, it's unbelievable. I didn't even think it was possible [to have so many people], it's crazy, it's special. Hopefully we live many more moments like this altogether, hopefully we can keep it going.”](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2025/05/03/12/40/01JTB2YT3WS1KB994JPNDM861G.jpg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
8. Willy Gnonto
“I've never seen something like this in my life. I just try to enjoy every moment, it's unbelievable. I didn't even think it was possible [to have so many people], it's crazy, it's special. Hopefully we live many more moments like this altogether, hopefully we can keep it going.” | Steven Paston/PA Wire
9. Ao Tanaka
“Amazing, unbelievable. I can’t believe it but I’m so happy to see this. That’s why I wanted to come here, I wanted to play in the Premier League. I’m so happy to have this chant and be with the fans, I’m so grateful.” | Getty Images
10. Patrick Bamford
“It’s been a few years coming, obviously we missed it last time. I've never seen so many people in my life so it's brilliant. Honestly, I didn't play as much this year but I’m making up for it a few years ago. I’m enjoying it and it's brilliant. Leeds fans, we’re high and we’re super f****** low, but this bit means everything and honestly, this makes it all worth it.” | Getty Images
11. Paraag Marathe
“I don't think anyone realised, this wasn’t fucking easy, it was really hard to do, two years of getting to this point, but all that hard work and difficulty makes right now more rewarding and that makes it more special. I hope I never forget this moment. I want to live in the moment as much as I can, but this is a journey. Success is not final, we have to keep going, that's what Leeds do, we keep fighting. We’re going to have some difficulties but we're going to get where we want to go and we’re going to be one of the best clubs in Europe.” | Getty Images