Max Wöber has returned to international duty with Austria, following a rather peculiar few weeks at Leeds United after Euro 2024. The defender’s future at Elland Road had been uncertain during the tournament, with the club opting to delay any discussions about his role until his return.
Daniel Farke, Leeds United’s head coach, has repeatedly expressed confidence in Wöber’s commitment to the club for the upcoming season.
Yet, despite these public affirmations, doubts lingered about whether Wöber would stay, even as the transfer window drew to a close. Unlike his teammate Brenden Aaronson, who has made a strong case for himself in his comeback, Wöber has struggled to reclaim a spot in the starting XI.
Throughout the summer, there was persistent speculation that Wöber might return to Borussia Mönchengladbach, the club where he spent the latter half of last season on loan. The German side never entirely dismissed the idea of re-signing him, keeping the possibility alive until the final days of the window.
Wöber has made just one appearance for Leeds in all competitions this season, a start in the Carabao Cup that ended in a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Middlesbrough.
Unfortunately, his performance that night did little to strengthen his case for more regular inclusion, leaving him behind Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon in the pecking order for a centre-back position.
As both Struijk and Rodon are left-footed, Wöber finds himself in direct competition with Struijk for a place in the side. However, with the Dutchman being one of Leeds’ standout performers so far, it appears unlikely that he will be dislodged from the lineup any time soon.
Wöber could find himself with an opportunity to impress during Austria’s upcoming international fixtures. Speaking to Sky Sports Austria while on duty with his national team, Wöber candidly acknowledged his current predicament at Leeds.
He expressed a clear understanding of the situation, even going as far as to admit that if he were in Farke’s shoes, he would make the same decision regarding team selection.
“We are three central defenders who are at a very similar level. If we remain successful and nothing happens, I wouldn’t change much as a coach. So I have to stand back and wait for the chance,” Wöber said.
He continued, “I’m at Leeds, that’s a perfect fit for me. I never said that I absolutely wanted to leave. I accepted this challenge, but I know that it won’t be easy to work my way back to the same position as before. The chance to play in the Premier League again is huge because on paper we have the best team and a broad squad. Our goal is clearly promotion.”
Wöber’s admission reflects both his acceptance of the current situation and his determination to fight for his place. However, it’s clear that he faces a tough battle to reclaim a spot in the team.
Farke has previously described Struijk as key to Leeds’ future, a statement made while the defender was sidelined with injury last season. Struijk’s smooth reintegration into the squad this season has only reinforced that belief.
Nonetheless, with the demands of a gruelling 46-game Championship season, injuries and suspensions are inevitable. When that time comes, Wöber must be ready to step up.
Should he manage to recapture the form he displayed during his initial weeks at the club, he could still prove to be a vital asset for Leeds United this season.