Luciano Becchio is a former RCD Mallorca and Leeds United player and Mateo Joseph is a current Mallorca and Leeds player.
The Spaniard has since left Leeds United on loan, with the club Luciano Becchio started at in Europe after moving from Argentina. Joseph left despite Leeds’ intent to retain him initially.
However, that changed at the start of pre-season when Daniel Farke explained Joseph had chosen not to be involved. Later on in the summer, Farke confirmed Joseph was not in his plans still following the Villarreal pre-season draw.
It was then reported that Betis wanted a loan for Joseph and also that Celta Vigo joined the Joseph race but he ended up heading elsewhere in Spain.
Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty ImagesLuciano Becchio posts message to Mateo Joseph
The La Liga duo appeared to be the likeliest destinations for Joseph, be that on loan or permanently. Graham Smyth said a loan for Joseph was most likely to be what materialised and it did.
Of course, Joseph’s sale could help Leeds’ PSR situation immeasurably in the future, but it can be as late as next year instead. In the end, a loan may well suit the Whites after Leeds were only willing to sell Joseph for their asking price.
He has yet to score for his new side but Joseph has taken part in some huge games already due to a less than favourable fixture schedule. Mallorca face Atletico Madrid tomorrow, having already played both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Ahead of the game tomorrow afternoon at home to Atleti, Becchio went and paid a visit to the club’s training ground and he has been seen pictured with Joseph on Becchio’s Instagram story.
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Becchio met Jonny Howson and Jermaine Beckford recently at Leeds’ training ground, but he seems to be touring around former sides in Europe. The caption reads: “What a man Mateo Joseph I wish you all the best 💪🏻”
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesHow likely Mateo Joseph is to return to Leeds
Considering Joseph’s hard start in La Liga with Espanyol, he has taken to life well enough in Spain. However, the likelihood of a return to West Yorkshire will remain the question for the remainder of the campaign.
Speaking to Spanish media, Leeds’ Joseph said he prefers life in Spain: “Not the same. There aren’t as many things to do, but I knew it was the place I needed to be. It’s not the prettiest place, but it’s cozy.”
Joseph admitted he could play for Leeds again in another interview but there is not likely to be a Willy Gnonto-like revival of Joseph’s Leeds career.
When you factor in the manner of his exit and refusing to go to Germany with the squad, bridges seem to have been burned. Becchio’s post won’t change that.