Leeds United midfielder 'was desperate' to seal Elland Road loan exit

Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca is said to have been desperate to leave the club for Real Betis.
Tom Coates
By Tom Coates
Published 5th Sep 2023, 14:03 BST
Updated 5th Sep 2023, 14:03 BST

The 26-year-old was one of many players to depart Leeds following the club’s relegation to the Premier League.

He returned to his native Spain, joining Real Betis on a season-long loan deal.

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According to Betis director Ramon Planes, Roca was keen to secure the summer switch.

Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca is said to have been desperate to leave the club for Real Betis. Image: Aitor Alcalde/Getty ImagesLeeds United midfielder Marc Roca is said to have been desperate to leave the club for Real Betis. Image: Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images
Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca is said to have been desperate to leave the club for Real Betis. Image: Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images

As reported by MARCA, Planes said: “He was desperate, he called every day. He left because of a good contract situation.

"I think he realised he wanted to return [to Spain] and that’s how he told us. I told him: ‘calm down, we’re going to do it’, but Marc is a boy who’s going to give us a lot.

"When the possibility with Manuel [Pellegrini] was seen, he immediately told us yes, that he knew him, the season is very long and he’s going to give us many things.”

Roca has completed 90 minutes in three of his new club’s four opening La Liga games. He made 36 appearances for Leeds last season, scoring once.

Related topics:Elland RoadSpainPremier League