Finally, the day has come. Gjanni Alioski’s Leeds United exit has been confirmed, just under a week after his contract officially expired. Four years of madness with beach-blonde Alioski in the side are now over. Leeds have made the news official on social media, with a heartfelt post.
The 29-year-old joined Leeds from Swiss side FC Lugano in the summer of 2017 for a fee believed to be around £2million. Since then, he has proved he is worth every single penny and then some. He finished with 171 appearances for the Whites to his name, scoring 22 goals and creating 19.
Not only was he magnificent on the pitch for Leeds – a true grafter – but he was a fan favourite too. Whether it be screaming Kalvin from a swimming pool, shaking a tunnel or getting Nicolas Pepe sent off, Leeds fans will always love Alioski. Leeds posted a video on social media.
Ayling, Phillips and Orta react to Alioski leaving Leeds
Taking to the club’s official website, sporting director Victor Orta was incredibly complimentary. The Spaniard spoke of how he knew Alioski would give his all when he first signed for the Yorkshire outfit – alongside his parents. Orta also says that Alioski exceeded expectations.
“I knew Gjanni was going to be special the moment he walked into the building,” Orta said. “The emotion I saw in his face and the face of his parents when signed his contract here at Elland Road was a beautiful moment. Even with this in mind he exceeded my expectations.
“Gjanni has been exceptional both on and off the field, his teammates will miss him greatly, as will all of the staff at Thorp Arch and Elland Road. We thank Gjanni for all of his efforts and we wish him every success for the future.”
Ayling and Phillips gave their reactions on Instagram to the exit of Alioski, joining Orta in paying tribute. Defender Ayling went on holiday with Alioski after promotion to the Premier League, and he is best-positioned to label him “mad” more than most – which he does.
Where next? A move to Turkey looks likely, with an offer for Alioski on the table from Trabzonspor.