Leo Duru


Leonard Chibueze Duru is a professional soccer player who plays as a right-back for Major League Soccer side San Diego FC, on loan from club Blackburn Rovers. Born in England, he represents the United States at youth level.

Club career

Duru was part of the academy at Manchester United before joining Blackburn Rovers as a U10. On July 7, 2021, he signed a scholarship contract with Blackburn and was promoted to their U23s. He signed his first professional contract with the club for one year on May 25, 2023. On May 13, 2024, he extended his contract again until 2026 with an option for another year. He made his senior and professional debut with Blackburn in a 6–1 EFL Cup win over Stockport County on August 13, 2024.
On January 9, 2025, Duru joined League Two side Barrow on loan for the remainder of the season.
On August 20, 2025, Duru joined MLS side San Diego on loan. The loan deal was reported as running until December with an option to extend until June 2026. On 31 December 2025, the club announced that Duru’s loan had been extended until the end of June.

International career

Born in England, Duru is eligible to play for England, Nigeria, and the United States. He is eligible for the United States via his American mother who is from Philadelphia. In October 2024, he was called up to the United States U20s for a set of friendlies.