Leeds United loanee Marc Roca was played at centre-back in Real Betis’ 2-1 win over Sparta Praha on Thursday.
And according to Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo, it was clear it was a position that was unfamiliar for him, as he was caught ‘off guard’ for the visitors’ goal.
Roca was one of eight members of last season’s first team squad to leave Leeds on loan during the summer in the wake of relegation.
So far, each of those players have experienced varying degrees of success, though Roca is the one that certainly appears to be playing at the highest level, having been named in the Spain squad for the upcoming international break.
After scoring and assisting in Betis’ 3-0 win over Valencia at the weekend, Roca was brought a little down to earth again on Thursday due to the positional change.
Nation’s media baffled by Roca position on Thursday
Despite Betis’ win, Roca was handed a 5/10 for his performance by Estadio Deportivo, though they did add it was hard to blame him given it was his first time playing there.
“He is not a central defender nor has he ever played so far back, so, although Birmancevic catches him off guard and misplaced at 0-1, it would not be fair to blame him either. The patchwork was noticed in the automatisms, which were more difficult to execute. He came on top as the minutes passed, imposing his good tactical reading on the court.”
Based on his performances at Leeds, it is impossible to imagine Roca ever having the capability of playing at centre-back, as he just does not have the physical attributes to do so.
However, clearly manager Manuel Pellegrini was keen to experiment outside of La Liga, though it doesn’t sound like it will be repeated anytime soon.
Roca will be hoping to return to his familiar central midfield role at the weekend against Alaves in order to build some momentum before meeting up with the Spain squad.
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