21-year-old Macclesfield forward Ethan McLeod dies in road accident
Macclesfield FC forward Ethan McLeod has died at the age of 21 following a car crash in England, the club has confirmed.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Macclesfield said McLeod was involved in a fatal accident on the M1 on Tuesday night while returning from an away fixture against Bedford Town.
“With the heaviest of hearts, Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod,” the club said. “Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1, which tragically took his life.”
The club described McLeod as a key member of the first-team squad, praising both his talent and character. It said his professionalism, work ethic, and positive attitude left a lasting impression on teammates, staff, and supporters.
“Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him,” the statement read. “His infectious personality endeared him to everyone he came into contact with.”
Macclesfield added that the news of McLeod’s death had devastated the club, while assuring his family and friends of its full support during the difficult period.
Tributes have poured in from across the football community. Wolverhampton Wanderers, McLeod’s former club, said it was heartbroken by his passing, noting that he joined the Wolves academy at the age of seven and signed professional terms before leaving in September 2024.
Wolves also revealed that McLeod’s younger brother, Conor, is currently part of their under-21 squad, adding that the club would provide care and support to the family. A minute’s silence will be observed before Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brentford in his honour.
The English Premier League, Manchester City, West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace, Bedford Town, and the England national team were among those who sent messages of condolence.
McLeod’s death is the latest in a series of tragic road incidents involving footballers in recent times, again drawing attention to the risks faced by players off the pitch. Macclesfield concluded its tribute by saying McLeod’s legacy would live on at the club. “Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore,” the statement said.
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