I was called a traitor for joining Liverpool – but Leeds didn't make me feel wanted

Harry Kewell, the Australian football star, has reflected on his controversial 2003 transfer from Leeds United to Liverpool, addressing the backlash he faced from Leeds fans who branded him a traitor[1][4]. Despite rising through Leeds' youth system and making 181 league appearances with 45 goals, Kewell insists he had no choice but to leave, as the club never offered him a new contract[1][4].

"I had no choice, I didn’t have a contract," Kewell stated in an Optus Sport interview. "If a club doesn’t offer you a contract then what can you do?" He emphasized his loyalty, noting Leeds signed him for free and he delivered "good years" in return. Despite interest from Barcelona, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Arsenal, Kewell chose Liverpool after talks with manager Gérard Houllier, a childhood favorite club[1][2][3]. The £5m move included a reported £2m fee to his agent, adding to the acrimony[4].

Leeds fans felt betrayed, especially as the board claimed negotiations were ongoing—a claim Kewell denies[4]. "They never put actual figures or numbers in front of me," he said, expressing disappointment after nine years of service[1][4].

At Liverpool, Kewell's stint was marred by injuries, with three of his five years disrupted, preventing consistent play[2][3]. He featured in major finals—two Champions League (injured early in 2005), FA Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and Super Cup—but struggled with form. Upon leaving in 2008, clubs offered "pay-as-you-play" deals due to his injury history, frustrating him: "If I’m running down the wing and somebody kicks me on the ankle, that’s not my fault."[2][3]

Kewell later rediscovered his love for football in warmer climates, calling his Liverpool exit one of his best decisions. His story highlights loyalty clashes in football, where business trumps sentiment[2][3].

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