Leeds United striker Mateo Joseph has lifted the lid on his loan move to RCD Mallorca, revealing why he forced a switch away from Elland Road — and admitting he never warmed to life in Leeds.
The 21-year-old pushed for a summer exit under Daniel Farke, with Real Betis showing interest before Mallorca stepped in to secure a season-long dry loan. Joseph has already clocked up 200 minutes in La Liga, though he is yet to score or register an assist.
Speaking to Diario de Mallorca, Joseph explained how a meeting with Mallorca’s coach Jagoba Arrasate and sporting director Pablo Ortells convinced him to make the move.
Joseph on Mallorca’s Convincing Pitch
“I had a conversation with Ortells and Jagoba in which they showed me the complete confidence they have in me. In some ways, they knew me almost better than I did, and that made me feel very good. I also made this decision with all my heart.” — Mateo Joseph, Diario de Mallorca
The Spanish U21 international said their analysis of his strengths helped him believe Mallorca could unlock his full potential: “Everything they saw that I could exploit in my game, my characteristics, and how they can get the best out of me.”
Looking Back on Leeds
Joseph joined Leeds from Espanyol in 2022, signed by then-sporting director Víctor Orta. He expressed gratitude to Orta and assistant Gaby Ruiz, who travelled to Spain to convince him of the project.
“It’s gone very well, and I’ve learned a lot from my time there,” Joseph said. But when asked about life in Leeds, he was blunt:
“It’s not the same. There aren’t as many things to do… 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.” — Mateo Joseph
Joseph’s Early Numbers at Mallorca
| Stat (2025/26) | Mateo Joseph |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 3 |
| Minutes | 200 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
source: Diario de Mallorca – 6 September 2025
While yet to contribute directly, he has become a regular starter under Arrasate, suggesting trust in his long-term impact.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
Joseph’s honesty about life in Leeds shows how difficult cultural adaptation can be for young players. On the pitch, he’s a talent with physicality and movement, but with Lukas Nmecha and Calvin-Lewis now ahead of him, his pathway at Elland Road is blocked.
Mallorca is a smart move. If he delivers in La Liga, Leeds can either welcome back a more mature striker next summer or cash in on a player whose value could rise again.
Key Insights
- Joseph forced a loan move to Mallorca after Betis failed to act.
- Revealed Ortells & Arrasate “knew him better than himself.”
- Admitted Leeds was “not the prettiest place” but learned a lot.
- Has 3 apps, 200 mins, 0 goals/assists so far in La Liga.
- Faces tough route back with Nmecha and Calvin-Lewis leading Leeds’ attack.
What’s Next
Joseph’s challenge is to break his scoring duck in Spain and prove he can handle the demands of top-flight football. His development this season will dictate whether Leeds reintegrate him or move him on permanently.
For Leeds, the focus remains on survival in the Premier League. With Nmecha already off the mark and Calvin-Lewis offering depth, Farke’s front line is well-stocked even without Joseph.
Can Mateo Joseph use his Mallorca loan to relaunch his Leeds career — or will this be the first step toward a permanent move away?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 8 Sep 2025 10:43
Good riddance, don’t come back.
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