Jaka Bijol has admitted he is unhappy with his reduced role at Leeds United under Daniel Farke, insisting he believes he has done enough to deserve more opportunities at Elland Road.
The defender was an important figure for the Whites last season, but the summer recruitment has changed the competition for places in Farke’s backline. Despite remaining part of the manager’s plans, the Slovenian has found himself watching far more football from the sidelines than he would have expected.
His latest comments suggest that, while he remains committed to Leeds, he is not entirely convinced by how his situation has developed.
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Bijol admits disappointment with Farke’s decision
Bijol has openly expressed his frustration with the lack of regular football he has received this season, suggesting he believes his performances have warranted more opportunities.
Speaking to Slovenian outlet 24ur.com while away on international duty, the 27-year-old said:
“The situation is a bit different than last season. I’m sure I’ve shown enough this year, so I’m a little disappointed with the whole thing. But that’s how it is; you have to accept it.
“Every footballer who doesn’t play is unhappy. These are facts, and I would be lying if I said anything different. On the other hand, I know that the club is doing well. I’m also happy about that, because this is an exceptional club with exceptional fans who deserve good results.”
It is a fairly candid admission from a player who was a regular towards the end of last season. Bijol has made just three Premier League starts this term, with Farke preferring other options in his defensive setup.
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Leeds defender accepts he must win his place back
Bijol also acknowledged that his future at Leeds is partly in his own hands, insisting he must maintain the right attitude and make the most of any opportunity that comes his way.
“I also have to have the right attitude and be right in training. It can happen that everything changes overnight and you’re playing the next day. That’s when you have to be ready to put in a good performance.
“In football, you really depend a lot on one person, but that’s just the way it is. You have to keep going and working. I’ve always believed that the effort in training and putting everything into your work pays off in the end.
“So far, this has always happened, and I believe it will this time too. Keep your head up and keep working.”
Farke’s selection decisions have become more complicated following the arrival of Nico Elvedi and Tarik Muharemovic, while James Justin has also featured in the back three.
Bijol’s frustration is understandable, but there is little indication that Leeds are ready to part ways with him. He remains under contract until 2030, and the club reportedly have no intention of entertaining offers in January.
The defender now faces the challenge of turning his disappointment into performances that make it impossible for Farke to overlook him.
