Leeds United Confirm Departure of 28-year-old Left-Back | OneFootball

Junior Firpo Departs Leeds United as Club Reshapes for Premier League Return

Firpo Moves On After Productive Promotion Campaign

Junior Firpo’s time at Leeds United has come to an end, with the club confirming his departure as a free agent. After three years at Elland Road, the left-back has opted not to renew his contract, seeking what has been described by the club as “a new challenge.”

The 28-year-old joined Leeds from Barcelona in 2021, arriving with expectations of adding European pedigree and attacking intent to the left flank. While his time in West Yorkshire was often disrupted by injury and inconsistency, he leaves with his reputation repaired following a strong contribution to Leeds’ promotion-winning season.

Firpo played 35 matches in all competitions during his final campaign, registering 10 assists and scoring four goals. His blend of forward drive and improved defensive composure proved vital in the club’s push to return to the Premier League.

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Spanish Return on the Horizon

There is growing speculation that Firpo will return to Spain, potentially to Real Betis, where he began his professional career. Speaking last week, Real Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo confirmed Firpo’s interest in returning to Seville, though negotiations are ongoing.

“Firpo wants to return to the Spanish club, but a deal is not yet finalised,” said Fajardo. A move back to La Liga would provide the Dominican Republic international with the opportunity to rekindle the form that saw him earn a high-profile move to Barcelona in 2019.

His time at Leeds, though not always smooth, has shown that he remains a capable player at a high level. Any club acquiring him this summer would be gaining an experienced full-back with a rediscovered appetite for the game.

Elland Road Farewell Marks a New Era

For Leeds United, Firpo’s exit represents another piece of transition as the club reshapes its squad ahead of a return to the top flight. The promotion as Championship winners brought joy back to Elland Road, but the demands of the Premier League require recalibration and renewal.

Firpo’s departure frees up wages and a starting berth for fresh competition at left-back. Whether the club dips into the market or promotes from within, the decision signals that nothing will be sentimental under the current regime. Performances are being assessed, futures decided, and the goal is clear: survival first, progress second.

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Firpo’s Contribution Merits Respect

Although his first two seasons were marked by struggles, Firpo’s final year showcased his potential. Playing with confidence, purpose and positional discipline, he became a reliable outlet on the left and contributed to the team’s attacking threat.

Four goals and 10 assists from a full-back in one season is not a common return and highlights just how effective he became under the tactical structure Leeds adopted last term. His performances against top-six opposition in the Championship were some of his most composed, showing a maturity that Leeds fans had long hoped to see.

His part in the promotion-winning squad should not be forgotten. Firpo arrived from the Nou Camp and leaves having helped lift the club back to where it belongs. While the Premier League challenge now lies with others, Firpo’s contribution deserves appreciation.