Leeds United defender Marc Roca is set to join Real Betis on loan for the upcoming season, according to reports. The 26-year-old, who signed for Leeds from Bayern Munich last year, will depart the West Yorkshire club after just one season.
Roca, a former Spain Under-21 international, made his name at Espanyol before securing a move to Bayern in 2020. However, he was unable to help Leeds stay in the Premier League as the club was relegated to the Championship last season.
During his time at Leeds, Roca made 36 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal and providing two assists. Despite his efforts, the club was unable to avoid relegation.
The loan move to Real Betis offers Roca an opportunity to continue playing at a high level in La Liga. Real Betis finished sixth in the league last season and will be competing in the UEFA Europa League this year.
Roca’s departure is part of a series of loan moves from Leeds this summer. United States international Brenden Aaronson has joined Union Berlin, Diego Llorente has re-joined Roma, and Robin Koch has signed for Eintracht Frankfurt on a temporary basis.
Leeds United fans may be disappointed to see Roca leave after just one season, but the loan move could benefit both the player and the club. Roca will have the chance to gain more experience and potentially secure a permanent move in the future, while Leeds can use the opportunity to assess other defensive options and potentially strengthen their squad.
Roca’s time in England has been described as “crazy” by the player himself. In an interview with The Athletic, he spoke about the intensity of English football and the challenges he faced adjusting to a new country and playing style.
Despite the difficulties, Roca expressed gratitude for his time at Leeds and the opportunity to play in the Premier League. He also mentioned working with a mind coach to help him cope with the mental demands of professional football.
As Roca prepares for his loan move to Real Betis, Leeds United will continue their preparations for the upcoming season. The club has already made several signings this summer, including Junior Firpo from Barcelona and Jack Harrison from Manchester City.
Leeds fans will be hoping that these new additions, along with the existing squad, can help the team secure promotion back to the Premier League. The Championship is a highly competitive league, but Leeds has shown in the past that they have the quality and determination to succeed.
The departure of Roca may be seen as a setback, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark. Manager Marcelo Bielsa will be looking to build a strong and cohesive team that can compete at the highest level.
Overall, while Leeds United may be losing Marc Roca on loan to Real Betis, this move could benefit both the player and the club in the long run. Roca will have the chance to continue playing at a high level in La Liga, while Leeds can assess other defensive options and potentially strengthen their squad. As the new season approaches, Leeds fans will be eagerly anticipating the team’s performance and hoping for a successful campaign.