Ethan Ampadu Steadies the Ship as Leeds United Captain Amidst Injury Crisis

Leeds United faces a critical Premier League test this weekend. They travel to face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, November 29, 2025. Their captain, Ethan Ampadu, must anchor a severely depleted midfield.

The club is in the relegation zone after three consecutive losses. Manager Daniel Farke is under immense pressure. Injuries to key midfielders have thrown the team into a crisis just before a daunting fixture.

A Captain’s Burden in a Depleted Squad

The midfield situation is dire. German midfielder Anton Stach is out with a concussion. Summer signing Sean Longstaff is also sidelined with a calf injury. This leaves Ampadu as the sole experienced figure in the center of the park.

He will be partnered by Ilia Gruev and Japanese international Ao Tanaka. Ampadu is also one yellow card away from a suspension. This adds another layer of difficulty to his crucial role.

Connecting to Leeds’ Glorious Past for Inspiration

Off the pitch, Ampadu has embraced the club’s history. In a recent interview, he spoke about past heroes. He discussed the lasting impact of former winger Raphinha, who left for Barcelona in 2022.

According to Leeds United News, Ampadu noted how fans and staff still revere the Brazilian. He also analyzed iconic goals by 1990s legend Tony Yeboah for Citi Sports. Ampadu praised Yeboah’s breathtaking technique and power.

A Formidable Challenge Against Manchester City

The upcoming match offers little respite. Manchester City has dominated Leeds at home in recent years. Their last three home games against Leeds have yielded sixteen goals for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Leeds’ last victory at the Etihad was a famous 2-1 win in April 2021. Current form suggests a repeat is unlikely. Leeds has lost five of its last six Premier League matches, a concerning trend.

The defensive record is a major worry. The team has conceded 22 goals in just 12 games. Only a handful of clubs have a worse defensive record this season.

Ethan Ampadu’s leadership and composure will be tested like never before as Leeds United navigates this storm. His ability to inspire a patched-up team against the league’s elite could define their season.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is currently injured for Leeds United’s midfield?

Anton Stach is out with a concussion. Sean Longstaff is also unavailable due to a calf injury. This leaves the midfield extremely short-handed.

What is Ethan Ampadu’s disciplinary situation?

Ampadu is one yellow card away from receiving a suspension. He must play with discipline against Manchester City to avoid missing a future match.

How has Leeds United’s form been recently?

The team is in very poor form. They have lost five of their last six Premier League matches. This slide has placed them in the relegation zone.

Which club legends has Ampadu recently spoken about?

He has publicly praised former winger Raphinha and 1990s striker Tony Yeboah. Ampadu highlighted their lasting legacy and incredible skill at Leeds United.

When did Leeds last win at the Etihad Stadium?

Their last victory at Manchester City was in April 2021. They won 2-1 that day despite playing with ten men for most of the match.

Why is Daniel Farke under pressure?

Farke is under pressure due to the team’s losing streak and league position. Critics have pointed to a lack of tactical flexibility during matches.