Mateo Joseph Leeds United after a tumultuous summer that saw him refuse to return to pre-season training to force his way out of Elland Road. However, the forward joined Mallorca on a season-long loan deal and will return to the club next year.
Leed stood firm on the conditions for Joseph’s exit in the summer. Real Betis wanted to sign him on loan early in the window, but they were keen to include an option to buy, which was a non-starter for the Yorkshire giants.
The Whites had no intention of including a buy option in any loan agreement for the Spaniard, as, despite the falling out between him and the manager, the striker is still rated highly at Elland Road.
Mallorca stepped up and managed to agree a simple loan deal that would see the forward spend the 2025/26 season at the Spanish club before returning to Leeds next summer.
Can you name the team Leeds United signed these players from in the 2000s?
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Mateo Joseph opens up about life at Leeds United
Joseph is yet to score for the Spanish club, and a dressing room situation is threatening to sour his time there, but for now, he is enjoying life at Mallorca.
However, he admitted that living in Leeds while playing for the Whites was an opposite experience. He stressed that while the Yorkshire town is welcoming, it is not a very pretty place.
Joseph emphasised that life in Leeds revolved almost entirely around football, so he stayed close to the training ground, allowing him to fully focus on his game.
“There aren’t as many things to do, but I knew it was the place I needed to be at that moment.
“It’s not the prettiest place, but it’s welcoming. I lived near the training ground and used that time to focus on what I had to do.”
The Leeds hierarchy admire him
Joseph may be enjoying life back in Spain, but Leeds are clear about wanting him back in the squad for next season.
Leeds ensured that there is no option to buy in the loan agreement, as he has admirers in the hierarchy, especially club chairman Paraag Marathe.
Managing director Robbie Evans admitted that the chairman is a big fan of the forward, and the club want him back next year.
He said, “He needs the minutes, and part of why his loan took as long as it did is that every team that was trying to take him on loan was requiring a buy option.
“We simply said there’s no way you’re getting an option on this player.
“Our hope is that he has a phenomenal season at Mallorca and comes back.
“He’s a favourite of the club and the chairman, and so we hope he does great.”
