The Bradford City players who are going to leave in 2025 if nothing is done | OneFootball

FLW outline the out of contract Bradford City players at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Bradford City’s recent history has been a story of ups and downs following a memorable promotion via the League Two play-offs in 2013, with no return to League One level since 2019.

The Bantams spent six seasons in League One. During that time, they were regularly midtable or promotion contenders, even reaching the 2017 play-off final, but ultimately fell short of securing a return to the Championship.

Since their relegation in 2019, Bradford have found themselves stuck in League Two for five seasons, failing to secure promotion despite their stature as arguably the biggest and best-supported club in the division. The fanbase has remained optimistic, with Valley Parade consistently seeing some of the highest attendances in the league.

However, repeated near misses in the race for promotion have led to frustration. Now, under the leadership of Graham Alexander, Bradford find themselves in yet another crucial season. Alexander will be desperate to deliver success, but the club has lingered between seventh and 13th for much of the 2024/25 campaign so far.

With automatic promotion still within reach, the pressure is on to find consistency and push for a top-three finish. Anything less than promotion will likely be seen as another missed opportunity for a club of Bradford’s size and ambition. Naturally, club's in the fourth tier have a high turnover of players, making it hard to build for many clubs.

The likes of Corry Evans and Paul Huntington could imminently depart after penning short-term deals that end in the next month. There are also five loanees, some of which Bradford may wish to sign permanently: Oliver Sanderson, Chieck Diabate, Jay Benn, Joe Adams, and Jack Shepherd.

They will have to make decisions on numerous players in the near future, with no fewer than 12 players out of contract at the end of the 2024/25 season. Here, we outline the seven players set to leave at the end of this season, as per Transfermarkt.

Jamie Walker

Jamie Walker was signed from Hearts in Scotland in January 2022, bringing experience from Scotland's top tier. A versatile attacking midfielder, Walker primarily operates as a No.10 but can also play out wide. His technical ability and vision make him a creative force for Bradford in both central and wide attacking roles and make him one of the key players.

Sam Walker

Sam Walker is a towering and experienced goalkeeper. He was signed after a short stint with Charlton after leaving Kilmarnock in the summer of 2024. Standing at 6'6", Walker commands his box with authority and excels in aerial duels. His imposing presence between the sticks has made him a fairly reliable option for Bradford in the last year.

Vadaine Oliver

Vadaine Oliver was signed from Gillingham in the summer of 2022. A powerful centre-forward, Oliver excels a physical battle, offering a presence in both attacking build-up and as a threat from crosses and set-pieces. However, the goals have been few and far between over the last couple of seasons and it's likely the 33-year-old's future lies elsewhere.

Richie Smallwood

Richie Smallwood joined from Hull City in the same summer as Oliver. A seasoned central midfielder with vast experience, Smallwood has played at a much higher level, including the Championship with Hull and Blackburn Rovers. Known for his leadership, he is the heartbeat of their midfield, and he was quickly appointed club captain. His experience makes him a crucial figure for Bradford, guiding the squad both on and off the pitch.

Callum Johnson

Callum Johnson joined Bradford from Mansfield Town on a free transfer this summer. A versatile defender, Johnson is primarily a right-back but can also cover across the back line. He hasn't featured since signing in the summer, with various injuries stopping him from getting his Bradford career off the ground.

Lewis Richards

Lewis Richards joined Bradford from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 after a loan spell with Harrogate. A versatile defender, Richards can play as a wing-back, left-back and centre-back. He brings athleticism and his adaptability makes him a valuable asset to their defensive line at the age of just 23.

Ciaran Kelly

Ciaran Kelly was signed by Bradford on a two-and-a-half year deal from Bohemians in January 2023. The left-footed defender is primarily a centre-back but can also slot in at left-back when needed. Known for his power and aerial ability, the 26-year-old had had his fair share of ankle issues this term that have kept him out of action.