During the summer training camp, Leeds United boss Daniel Farke had many serious decisions to make. With the new Premier League season approaching, the German had to shape a quality team.
While bringing in new recruits, decisions were being made on players at the club. The biggest decision being leaving Patrick Bamford out of the club’s plans for this season. The striker eventually agreed to a mutual termination of his contract and left on a free. Another decision that baffled some fans was reintegrating Jack Harrison into the first team. The winger spent the last two years out on loan, but Farke was adamant the club could use his experience.
And with the arrival of a few players decisions had to be made on other first team stars.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United strikers?
Mallorca boss reveals secret behind Mateo Joseph form
Mateo Joseph Credit: Imago
Mateo Joseph forced Daniel Farke’s hand as he refused to join the team in Germany in pre-season. Thus the club continued their plans without him as they looked for a suitable transfer. The forward eventually joined Mallorca on loan, where he was set for a more prominent role than if he stayed with the Whites.
Joseph struggled in his first few games of the season, with some mixed performances. He was even benched at a point, and was guilty of missing a huge chance which could have drawn Mallorca level in their loss to Real Sociedad. It took seven league games without a goal contribution, but the 22-year old has suddenly burst into life in the last two games: an assist against Athletic Club and two goals in a win over Sevilla.
Mallorca boss Jagoba Arrasate revealed that the forward has been working hard in extra training sessions for this moment:
“He’s working hard to improve. He always stays at the end of training to improve his finishing, which makes me very happy.
“The victory comes at a crucial time, and we’re also happy with how it turned out.”
Did Leeds United make the right choice?
It was not really a straightforward choice as Joseph asked to leave, but ultimately keeping Jack Harrison and Brenden Aaronson at Elland Road while having a forward performing in La Liga is not good for optics. Leeds attackers have struggled overall this season, and it has been costing the club crucial points. Maybe if they had been patient with the likes of Mateo Joseph and Largie Ramazani, things may have turned out differently.
