Tributes have poured in from across the football world following the death of Macclesfield FC forward, Ethan McLeod, who died in a car accident at the age of 21.
Macclesfield FC confirmed the tragic incident in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying McLeod was involved in a fatal crash on the M1 motorway on Tuesday night while returning from an away match against Bedford Town.
“With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism, 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 an important member of the first-team squad and praised his talent, attitude and personality.
“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.
“But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with.”
Macclesfield added that his dedication and work ethic left a deep impact on teammates and staff.
“In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be – both on and off the pitch.
“Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days.”
The club said the loss had left players, officials and supporters devastated.
“News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now,” it said.
Despite the grief, the club said McLeod’s memory would live on.
“Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten.”
Macclesfield also expressed sympathy to his loved ones, saying, “Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time.”
McLeod’s parent club, Wolverhampton Wanderers, also mourned his death in a statement.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod at the age of 21,” Wolves said.
“Ethan joined Wolves Academy at seven-years-old and went on to sign professional terms at the club, before leaving in September 2024.”
The Premier League club added that McLeod’s younger brother, Conor, is currently part of their under-21 team.
“Ethan’s younger brother Conor is currently in our under-21 squad and the whole club will be providing care and support to him and his family,” Wolves said.
“We will observe a minute’s silence at Saturday’s first-team fixture against Brentford, to remember and honour Ethan.”
The English Premier League also reacted, saying, “Our thoughts and condolences are with Ethan’s family, friends and all those associated with Wolves and Macclesfield at this sad time.”
Several clubs, including West Bromwich Albion, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Bedford Town, also shared messages of condolence, describing McLeod’s death as heartbreaking and untimely.
His death adds to a growing list of footballers involved in fatal or serious road accidents in recent times.
Earlier this year, Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota died at 28 following a car crash in Spain. Former West Ham United striker Michail Antonio also survived a severe road accident and later said he narrowly escaped death.
McLeod’s passing has left the English football community in mourning, with many describing him as a young player taken far too soon.
