Leeds United Retain Sam Byram, Release Illan Meslier, Question Max Wöber's Future

On BBC Radio Leeds' "Don't Go To Bed Just Yet" podcast, presenter Adam Pope reviewed Leeds United's official released and retained list. He noted that goalkeeper Illan Meslier is leaving after a seven‑year spell, while Sam Byram remains under contract and Max Wöber returns from loan.

Pope highlighted that Meslier's contract expired, prompting his farewell to Elland Road. He described Meslier's parting message as a "this is it" moment captured while the keeper stood in the rain wearing his kit.

According to Pope, Meslier is unlikely to join another club of similar size or stature again. The former Leeds goalkeeper expressed that the club will always be part of him.

Sam Byram, who featured among the retained names, made only a few appearances last season but proved a reasonable backup. Pope praised Byram's ability to read the game, adapt to both sides of the pitch and suggested a contract extension could precede a modest sale.

Max Wöber returned to Leeds United after a season‑long loan at Werder Bremen. Pope observed that Wöber barely featured last season, struggled to recover from injury, and is unlikely to be considered a first‑choice left‑sided player.

Pope concluded that Leeds United is currently a great club with Premier League ambitions. He warned that keeping Wöber without a clear role could be problematic for the squad next season.