NafisaSebastiaan Bornauw has officially said goodbye to Leeds United after bringing his short spell at Elland Road to an end.
The Belgian defender took to Instagram to share an emotional message with Leeds supporters, reflecting on his brief time with the club and thanking the fans for making him feel at home.
Bornauw’s time in West Yorkshire may have been short, but the 27-year-old clearly leaves with fond memories of his experience in the famous Leeds shirt.
In a heartfelt message addressed to the “Leeds family”, Bornauw admitted that his chapter with the club was one he would never forget.
«“Dear Leeds family,»
«It’s been a short chapter, but one I’ll never forget. The MOT family is something else — this club is truly special.»
«Thanks for making me feel at home from day one. I loved every minute wearing this badge, especially those nights at Elland Road.»
«All the best, Leeds. 💙💛”»
The message will undoubtedly resonate with Leeds supporters, particularly given the defender’s increased involvement during pre-season before his eventual departure was confirmed.
Bornauw had appeared to be facing an uncertain future at Elland Road heading into the final stages of the summer transfer window.
Despite featuring prominently during pre-season, the arrival of another centre-back eventually paved the way for the Belgian to move on.
Leeds agreed a deal to bring Nico Elvedi to the club from Borussia Mönchengladbach, with the Switzerland international arriving to strengthen Daniel Farke’s defensive options.
That development effectively opened the door for Bornauw to leave.
The defender subsequently completed his move to Hamburg, returning to Germany after his time with Leeds.
For Bornauw, the departure marks another chapter in a career that has already included spells in Belgium and Germany before his move to England.
His time at Leeds may not have lasted long enough for him to become a long-term fixture, but his message suggests he formed a genuine connection with the club and its supporters.
The reference to the “MOT family” is particularly telling, with Bornauw clearly impressed by the atmosphere surrounding Leeds and the passion of the fanbase.
His mention of the nights at Elland Road also highlights what appears to have been one of the biggest highlights of his brief stay.
Leeds supporters will now watch on as Bornauw begins the next stage of his career in Germany.
Meanwhile, Farke has moved quickly to reshape his defensive options, with Elvedi now providing another experienced option at centre-back.
Bornauw may have left Elland Road, but his farewell message shows that his short stay clearly left an impression.
And judging by his final words, the feeling appears to be mutual.
All the best, Sebastiaan.
Nafisa
