Junior Firpo’s Real Betis return not working out after Leeds United exit

When Junior Firpo left Leeds United in the summer, his return to Real Betis was supposed to be a homecoming. Four years in England had built resilience and maturity — and Betis believed they were bringing back a more complete left-back.

But three months into the season, things haven’t gone to plan.

According to AS, the 29-year-old’s decision to leave Leeds on a free transfer “isn’t working out.” After starting Betis’s first four league matches, Firpo hasn’t featured in La Liga since September 19, slipping behind Ricardo Rodríguez in the pecking order.

Firpo was a key figure in Daniel Farke’s promotion-winning Leeds side, registering four goals and ten assists in 32 Championship games last season. Leeds had pushed to renew his contract, but Firpo opted for a fresh start at his former club — a move now being questioned by the Spanish press.

AS claim that Manuel Pellegrini had expected Firpo to raise Betis’ defensive level after a mixed campaign from Rodríguez. Instead, the coach has leaned on the veteran’s leadership and experience, leaving Firpo “barely sparking” since his return.

Pellegrini has reportedly told club officials that Firpo is still readjusting to Spanish football after four demanding years in the Championship and Premier League.

The Betis boss believes the defender’s positioning and rhythm need time to recalibrate to La Liga’s slower but more technical style.

AS even labelled the situation “Operation Junior”, with Pellegrini determined to “recover the player’s best version” before the end of the year.

Betis’ congested fixture list could yet open the door for rotation, but for now, Rodríguez remains first choice on the left.

Leeds United had hoped to keep Firpo as part of their Premier League return, and his departure was initially seen as a blow.

However, Farke’s side have adjusted well, with Gabriel Gudmundsson and James Justin covering the role effectively in early-season line-ups.

While Firpo chases consistency in Seville, Leeds have found balance without him — a reminder that sometimes staying put is the smarter move.

With Europa League fixtures ahead, Pellegrini is expected to rotate his defence, giving Firpo a chance to prove himself.

AS suggest the next month will be crucial in determining whether he re-establishes himself or becomes a backup option for the remainder of the campaign.

Betis fans still hope to see the version of Firpo who dazzled in his first spell — energetic, technical, and attack-minded.

But as of mid-October, that version hasn’t reappeared.