‘Gets lost’: Local journalist says Leeds loanee has struggled since summer move, could be dropped soon

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Spanish journalist Carlos Freytas Palomo says Leeds United loanee Marc Roca has struggled in his time at Real Betis.

Palomo was speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post about Roca’s start to life at Betis following his season-long-loan move from Leeds in the summer.

Roca was one of eight members of last season’s first team squad to leave on loan after Leeds‘ relegation, and things had appeared to be going well for him.

The 26-year-old was called up to Spain’s provisional squad for the most recent international break, and has frequently been praised by local media for his performances.

However, these latest quotes from Palomo would suggest completely otherwise, with it appearing as though the problems that plagued his time at Leeds have transferred over to Betis.

Spanish journalist criticises Roca’s Betis form

Palomo believes Roca has struggled when he has come up against midfielders with pace, is a poor shield for the back four, and could be dropped to the bench once William Carvalho returns to full fitness.

He said: “Marc plays better in the pivot, but not next to Guido [Rodríguez]. He is always a good defensive aid in duels, but against opponents with speed he is left far behind. Defensively in midfield he is a lung, against big opponents, with superior yardage, he lost the contest and became insubstantial. With him the defence is not completely secure, [Betis’] midfield is too weak.

“He is the best we have in midfield – Guido is having terrible games. But he still hasn’t found someone to coordinate the midfield with. Betis does not create chances because he does not distribute the ball like an organising midfielder.

“He serves as a pivot, but he is not 100 per cent in every game, he disconnects and gets lost, that’s why they change him for [William] Carvalho. Most likely, when the Portuguese is at 100 per cent, [Roca] will be a substitute.”

Roca verdict not great reading for Leeds

Roca has spoken of his desire to remain at Betis beyond the initially agreed loan deal and so this does not make good reading for Leeds.

If this form does continue and he is indeed dropped to the bench, there is going to be little desire for Betis to look to make it permanently.

That will leave Leeds and Roca back at square one again next summer, which is a scenario no one will be wanting.