Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has sparked outrage among Leeds United supporters after making controversial comments about Ethan Ampadu following his side’s latest Premier League victory.
City secured an important win thanks to Antoine Semenyo’s strike in first-half stoppage time (45+2’), but the post-match headlines quickly shifted from the result to Guardiola’s explosive remarks about the Leeds midfielder.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola openly suggested that Ampadu should consider leaving Leeds United, claiming the 25-year-old is at a stage in his career where he should not be involved in a relegation battle.
“You are 25 and your team is fighting against relegation — you will want a better club,” Guardiola said. “At that age, you must think about your future. If there is an opportunity to join a club competing at the highest level, you consider it.”
The Manchester City boss went further, revealing that the club would welcome Ampadu and hinting that a move could be on the table.
“He is experienced now. He understands the game. For us, profiles like that are important. If he considers our offer, it would be good for him.”
The comments have not gone down well in West Yorkshire.
Leeds fans reacted angrily across social media, accusing Guardiola of disrespect and attempting to unsettle one of their key players publicly. Many supporters described the remarks as inappropriate, especially with the club battling near the bottom of the table.
Ampadu, who has been a consistent performer for Leeds this season, remains under contract, and there has been no official confirmation of any formal approach from Manchester City. However, Guardiola’s public praise — and pointed suggestion — has intensified speculation.
For Leeds, the timing could not be worse. With the team fighting to secure Premier League survival, any distraction surrounding a senior player is far from ideal.
For Manchester City, it may simply be Guardiola speaking candidly. But for Leeds supporters, it felt like a direct attempt to lure away one of their leaders during a crucial stage of the campaign.
Whether Ampadu responds publicly remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that Guardiola’s words have added fuel to an already tense Premier League atmosphere.