'Soon' - Georginio Rutter breaks Leeds United silence on the future after play-off heartbreak

Inconsolable and teary Georginio Rutter will be one of the abiding memories of Leeds United’s 2024 disappointment. The French forward took last month’s Championship play-off final badly and he seems keen on crossing paths with Whites supporters again in the near future.

In his first comments since the loss to Southampton at Wembley, Rutter addressed fans on his Instagram profile. Rutter thanks for the backing he and his team-mates have had since last August and indicated he will see them all soon.

“Hello, Leeds fans,” he said. “A few days have passed, but [there is] still as much disappointment. The objective was not achieved despite a superb season, where each of us gave our maximum. Thank you for your support throughout the year, see you soon.”

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There are another four years to run on the contract Rutter signed when he completed the most expensive transfer in the club’s history last year. There is no loan clause paving the way for the 22-year-old to depart this summer with United in the Championship, so any exit would be on the club’s terms.

Chairman Paraag Marathe has conceded sales will need to be made this summer in order for the club to remain compliant with profit and sustainability rules. Rutter was one of United’s best performers last season, but given United committed in the region of £35m to his arrival, breaking even or making a profit on that fee would be a tall order.

The Leeds fanbase will hope Rutter’s indication he will see them soon is a commitment to making another go of this with Daniel Farke next season.