The international break often sees players return to their home countries and open up a bit more in interviews with their nation’s media, and that is no different for Leeds United’s Jaka Bijol.
It has been a testing period in Bijol’s career. Daniel Farke described Bijol as a “marquee signing” recently, and the stats suggested he would be a key player for The Whites in the fight for Premier League survival.
Bijol was exceptional for Udinese last season, winning the fourth-most aerial duels and often captaining Udinese. Leeds spent £15m to land the Slovenian, but he’s not played once in the Premier League so far.
A suspension was carried over from Serie A, meaning Bijol missed the first game against Everton. Pascal Struijk has since impressed in defence, and Bijol has only been afforded one outing in the Carabao Cup.
Bijol discusses Man United’s Benjamin Sesko to Slovenian media
Bijol spoke openly and candidly about his lack of Leeds game time. Not only has Bijol failed to start any of Leeds’ seven Premier League games, but the giant defender has not even come on as a substitute, yet.
The defender, quoted by Ekipa, also discussed the improving form of his fellow countryman Benjamin Sesko at rivals Man United. Bijol said he’s “happy” for Sesko, but hopes his quotes aren’t translated.
He’s aware, rightly so, of the rivalry between Leeds and Man United: “I’m very happy he found his groove. People in England are quite ruthless. I’m very happy that this pressure has at least fallen off his shoulders.
“It’s true that there is a rivalry, so I hope that these words won’t be translated too much or understood in the wrong sense. I’m happy for Benjamin, I can’t be for [Man] United. The derby will come soon,” he said.
Jaka Bijol hoping for more game time before Man United clash
Both Bijol and Sesko made the move to the Premier League in the summer and the duo will finally meet on January 3. Ironically, the same date of Leeds’ famous FA Cup win over Man United, 15 years ago.
Bijol on facing Sesko: “I hope, I’m sure that I will get the opportunity by then. We play at Old Trafford, I would prefer it at Elland Road, which is difficult for every opponent. But it will be something special.”
After Leeds’ last outing, Bijol is probably closer than ever to overtaking Struijk in the first team after a bit of a shaky display and, unfortunately, the man to deflect two shots past Karl Darlow. Burnley away, next.
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