It is still two years until the next World Cup in 2026 but a Leeds United player is already being eyed as the attacking spearhead for a nation’s bid to win the coveted trophy.
Despite remaining in the Championship for another season, Leeds have managed to increase the number of international players on the books. Brenden Aaronson and Max Wober’s return has seen that list grow.
But the signings of Manor Solomon and Ao Tanaka have also increased Leeds’ internationals, as has the Wales call-ups of Charlie Crew and Karl Darlow along with new in-form Spain U21 star Mateo Joseph.
The striker has starred this season after being made first choice by Daniel Farke, winning the man of the match award against Sheffield Wednesday with two assists and then scoring last time out against Hull
Mateo Joseph eyed by Spain boss ahead of 2026 World Cup
It has seen Joseph called-up by Spain’s U21 side again and last week, he got the winner to beat Scotland 2-1 after coming off the bench. The 20-year-old is on fire and is only showing signs of getting better.
So much so, that his form has caught the attention of Spain manager Luis De La Fuente. Fresh from Euro 2024 success in which Spain beat England in the final, De La Fuente is looking for a new Spain striker.
Alvaro Morata is currently first choice but he has always had his doubters and Spanish outlet AS say it is the weakest part of the side, and that is why De La Fuente is already considering his striker options.
Joseph has hefty competition for Spain spot, but is first choice
Joseph has left such an impression on De La Fuente with his form for Spain’s U21 side and at Elland Road that he is seen as first choice in a list of three young strikers that the Spain manager is considering.
One of them includes new Porto striker Samu Omorodion, a player Chelsea bid £34m to sign this summer according to The Athletic. Abel Ruiz, who joined Girona from Braga, is also being considered by Spain.
But Joseph has caught the eye of De La Fuente and if he continues his path to success, there is no reason why the Leeds star could not be in Spain’s 2026 World Cup squad. Hopefully, he is still a Leeds player.
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