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Who is Joe Rodon? Inside the life of Leeds United’s imperious centre-back

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Take a look at everything you need to know about Leeds United defender Joe Rodon.

Leeds United narrowly missed out on promotion back to the Premier League in 2024 but that didn’t mean Daniel Farke had to scrap everything and start again.

Joe Rodon was one of his best performers when spending the season on loan at Elland Road from Tottenham, so he became one of the manager’s top summer transfer targets.

Though he cost in the region of £10m, Rodon has proven to be an exceptional signing and was crucial in Leeds winning the title with 100 points. He’s also taken brilliantly to the Premier League.

Here’s everything you need to know about him.

Joe Rodon during Man United vs Leeds United.
Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images

Joe Rodon age and height

Rodon was born on October 22nd, 1997, which makes him 29 years old as of October 2025 and is in the peak years of his career.

The former Leeds loan star is approximately 1.93 metres in height, or roughly six feet and four inches tall, making him a towering presence in both boxes.

Joe Rodon position

Throughout his career, Rodon has played in defence for his team, often occupying centre-back or right-back on the pitch.

The defender is comfortable on the left or right, despite being mainly right-footed, adding plenty of versatility to the setup.

Rodon’s career path

Rodon made his way through the Swansea City academy, progressing through the ranks until he became a first-team name on a regular occasion.

Some impressive performances for the Swans eventually saw the defender seal an £11million – rising to £15million with add-ons – move to Tottenham in 2020.

Rodon went on to make 24 appearances for Spurs but soon found himself out of the picture, joining Stade Rennais on loan.

Following that campaign in France, the defender then joined Leeds for the 2023-24 Championship season.

He returned in a permanent £10m switch the following summer, as part of the deal that saw Archie Gray head to Spurs.

Joe Rodon nationality

Born in Swansea, Rodon has represented his nation, Wales, on the international stage, earning well over 50 caps for his country.

Seven of those appearances have come in the European Championships and the World Cup, adding valuable experience to his career.

Style of play

Rodon is a ball-playing defender who is more than comfortable in and out of possession for whichever team he plays.

While the centre-back is predominantly right-footed, he is capable of passing out with his left and opening new angles.

In the defensive phase, Rodon is aerially dominant and possesses the strength and pace necessary for any action that is required.