Leeds fans banned from matches by German police as live streams also blocked

Leeds United have expressed their regrets to supporters who won't be able to attend the team's pre-season matches in Germany as they gear up for their much-anticipated return to the Premier League. Manager Daniel Farke and his squad are preparing for an intense eight-day training camp in preparation for the upcoming season.

Although fans will have the opportunity to watch Leeds face Manchester United in Stockholm next month and take on AC Milan in Dublin, there can unfortunately be no spectators in attendance for the games in Germany. In a statement, the club said: "Opponents and venues for fixtures were arranged earlier this year, and written assurances secured from both the German FA and our tour operator as well, given last summer we were asked at short notice by the police and local authorities not to bring supporters due to a resource strain following Euro 2024.

"Frustratingly, despite having matches agreed for a number of months, we have in the last week been informed that the police and local authorities will once again not grant a permit for us to play matches in front of spectators, will prohibit us from providing live updates and video streams, and have requested we discourage supporter travel.

"This comes despite multiple attempts to find a solution including offering various assurances, pursuing alternative scenarios that would allow for fan attendance, and even evaluating moving camp to a different location on short notice. Unfortunately, those efforts were fruitless due to the last-second nature of our change in circumstances.

"This result is deeply frustrating to all of us, just as it is sure to frustrate and anger you, our loyal supporters, to whom we apologise unreservedly for this outcome."

The Leeds United Supporters Trust has announced it will be contacting the German authorities to seek an explanation behind the decision.

"For the second consecutive season Leeds United fans are being excluded from attending pre-season friendlies in Germany without any sensible explanation coming from authorities," read a statement from LUST.

"This is extremely disappointing, given that the excuse last year was around post-Euros policing, despite other British clubs being allowed fans in attendance in Germany.

"We respect the club and Daniel Farke's desire to keep a successful training camp in Germany, but would expect a valid reason from the authorities as to why once again Leeds United fans are being unduly excluded.

"Leeds United Supporters' Trust recognises the work by the club to secure high-profile friendlies in Scandinavia and Ireland, giving back to the loyalty of fans who we know regularly travel. The trust will reach out to the German authorities on behalf of our members and Leeds fans."

Villarreal are set to visit Elland Road on August 2nd, allowing those fans who can't make it to Germany the chance to engage with the pre-season excitement.

After clinching the Sky Bet Championship title on the last day of the previous season, Leeds are set to kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Everton on Monday, 18 August.