In 2017, Leeds United made a notable acquisition when they signed Vurnon Anita on a free transfer from Newcastle United. The club was undergoing a summer overhaul, bringing in several new faces, but few had the kind of Championship experience that Anita could offer.
Having just come off a successful season with Newcastle, where he played a key role in their Championship title win, Anita seemed like a perfect fit for Leeds. The Dutch midfielder, who could also fill in at right-back, had accumulated over 150 appearances during his five years at St. James’ Park, having been signed by the Magpies for £6.2m in 2012 from Ajax.
However, despite his pedigree, Anita never truly found his place at Elland Road. Early on, he was a regular starter, but his role diminished under manager Thomas Christiansen, and he was soon relegated to a more limited role. Even after Paul Heckingbottom replaced Christiansen, Anita’s situation didn’t improve, and he remained on the fringes of the team.
Now 35, Anita’s playing career appears to be winding down. After leaving Leeds, he spent time at CSKA Sofia and RKC Waalwijk before moving to Saudi Arabia for the 2023 season. He played for Al-Orobah but was not retained for the 2024/25 campaign.
With his contract now expired, the former Netherlands international has been a free agent for several months. It remains uncertain where his career will go next.
