Daniel Farke Confirms Josuha Guilavogui’s Leeds Exit: Fans Won’t See Veteran Star Again
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has confirmed that fans will not see Josuha Guilavogui in a Whites shirt again, as the veteran midfielder is set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the 2024/25 season. The 34-year-old, who joined Leeds as a free agent in October 2024, failed to secure a single Championship start under Farke, prompting his imminent departure following the club’s promotion to the Premier League.
Guilavogui, a former France international with experience at top clubs like Wolfsburg and Atlético Madrid, was signed to provide depth and leadership during Leeds’ Championship campaign. However, Farke explained that the player’s lack of game time stemmed from the strength of his midfield options, including Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, who have been pivotal in Leeds’ title-winning season, amassing 100 points. “Josuha brought invaluable experience off the pitch, but with our squad’s depth and the demands of the schedule, opportunities were limited,” Farke said, per MOT Leeds News. “His contract ends this summer, and we wish him well.”
The midfielder’s exit was subtly confirmed during Leeds’ Championship title celebrations after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle on May 3, 2025. Guilavogui posted an emotional Instagram message, and teammates wrote farewell messages on his shirt, signaling his departure. Despite his minimal on-field impact, Farke praised Guilavogui’s professionalism, noting his role in mentoring younger players during training and fostering team unity.
Leeds’ focus now shifts to the Premier League, with Farke and chairman Paraag Marathe planning a robust transfer window to avoid relegation. The club’s financial constraints, with £94.5m in losses over two seasons, mean player exits like Guilavogui’s are crucial for balancing the books. While fans hoped to see the seasoned star in action, his high wages and lack of minutes made a contract extension unlikely.
As Leeds prepare for top-flight challenges, Guilavogui’s departure marks the end of a brief but appreciated stint. Fans will cherish his off-field contributions but won’t see him don the white jersey again, with the club eyeing younger talents like Tammy Abraham to bolster their squad.
