Mateo Joseph is off to an excellent start this 2024-25 season with Leeds United, having scored one goal and registered two assists through four Championship matches.
The 20-year-old has carried this impressive form into the international break while playing for Spain’s under-21 team. Joseph came off the bench in the 66th minute and scored the game-winner against Scotland.
Joseph’s current form isn’t surprising to his Leeds teammate Daniel James, who recently praised the young player for his conduct despite his age.
“What gets me most about him is his aura,” James told The Second Tier podcast. “He wants to do better, he’s always staying out doing extras, he wants to be better, great professionalism.
“His work rate off the ball is second to none. He’s not lazy, he’s always working hard. You see him winning the ball back in full-back positions. You have to remind him to stay up front but he’s got that about him.”
Is a first-team call-up in Mateo Joseph’s future?
The excellent start to the Championship season, along with an impressive showing so far this international break, has put Joseph on the radar of Spain national team manager Luis de la Fuente.
Spanish media outlet Diario AS reported on Sunday that de la Fuente has definitely noted the progress the Leeds standout has made this campaign. Moreover, Joseph plays the striker position, which is currently the weakest part of the national team.
AS also notes that the reigning UEFA Euro champions’ goal is to find a reliable striker for the 2026 World Cup, with Joseph, FC Porto’s Samu Omorodion, and Girona’s Abel Ruiz all in the running.
Nonetheless, the report also reveals that right now, Joseph is leading the pack, and de la Fuente is keeping a close eye on him. If the youngster continues to perform well at Leeds, he could earn his chance with the senior squad, who aren’t afraid to give opportunities to young players.
The Whites should see a more motivated Joseph return from the international break to Elland Road, and should he produce these next few weeks for Leeds, who knows, he might get that surprise call-up sooner rather than later.
