Mateo Joseph drops bombshell Leeds United transfer statement — 'I would have preferred' — Leeds Live 9/8/25
Mateo Joseph has admitted that he "would have preferred things to end differently" in an emotional message to the Leeds United fans following his loan move to RCD Mallorca.
Daniel Farke said last month that Joseph had requested to
leave Elland Road for a Spanish club. According to Farke, Joseph declined to
travel to Sweden or Germany with the squad for pre-season preparation.
The Spain Under 21s international made it clear to Farke
that he saw his future in his homeland, with Real Betis and Girona both
exploring a move. However, Leeds rejected loan offers which included pre-agreed
options to buy.
With Joseph having three years left on his contract, Leeds
had no urgency to sell a striker they see potential in and therefore preferred
a straight loan or an outright permanent deal worth his asking price, believed
to be £8.6million.
Mallorca, who finished 10th in La Liga last season, then
came in with a season-long loan offer and Leeds decided to accept it. Indeed,
the Whites confirmed on Saturday morning that Joseph has signed for the
Balearic Island club.
"Leeds United can confirm Mateo Joseph has joined RCD
Mallorca on a season-long loan deal," a club statement read. "The
21-year-old forward has made 73 first team appearances for the Whites and
contributed towards Daniel Farke’s side being crowned champions last season. We
wish Mateo good luck at Estadi Mallorca Son Moix."
Moments after both Leeds and Mallorca announced the deal,
Joseph then took to Instagram to send a message to the club's fanbase. He
hinted that he could still have a long-term future in West Yorkshire.
He said: "Hi everyone, as many of you already know,
this season brings a new stage in my career. I'm going out on loan, but I
didn't want to leave without sharing a few words.
"My time at Leeds United has shaped me both on and off
the pitch. I arrived full of hope, started with the U21s dreaming of playing
for the first team... and that dream came true.
"I had the opportunity to grow, to establish myself, to
experience a promotion to the Premier League, and to share the pitch with great
teammates and professionals.
"It's true that I would have preferred things to end
differently. There are situations that haven't been easy, and sometimes not
everything depends on you. I trust that time puts everything into perspective,
and maybe one day I'll have the chance to tell my side of the story.
"Now it's time to gain minutes, keep developing, and
face new challenges with the same ambition and commitment. I leave motivated
and thankful, knowing this is just another step on the journey. See you soon,
Mateo."
Joseph could make his Mallorca debut against Raphinha's
Barcelona next Saturday. They then face Celta Vigo before travelling to Real
Madrid to round off the first month of the new season.