Former Leeds United defender Junior Firpo has admitted his first season back at Real Betis has been frustrating after a series of injuries disrupted his campaign.
The Dominican Republic international came through the youth ranks at Betis and quickly earned a reputation as one of the club’s brightest young talents. His impressive performances eventually secured him a move to FC Barcelona in 2019, where he made 41 appearances across two seasons.
Firpo then joined Leeds United in 2021 after being convinced by former sporting director Victor Orta and ex-manager Marcelo Bielsa to become part of the Elland Road project.
Although his four-year spell in West Yorkshire produced mixed results, Firpo still featured 119 times for the Whites and remained loyal to the club following relegation, unlike several teammates who departed using release clauses.
Last summer, the 29-year-old completed an emotional return to his boyhood club, Real Betis. However, recurring muscle and hamstring problems limited him to just 16 appearances and around 1,000 minutes across all competitions this season.
Speaking to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV, Firpo admitted the constant injury setbacks have been difficult despite his efforts to stay in top condition.
“I’ve suffered setback after setback with injuries. You look after yourself, eat properly, and still football sometimes goes that way.
“But I’m convinced next season will be my year.”
Meanwhile, Leeds appear to have found a strong replacement in Swedish defender Gabriel Gudmundsson, whose performances in the Premier League have reportedly earned praise as “phenomenal.”
Firpo remains under contract with Real Betis until 2028 and will now hope for a fully fit campaign next season as he looks to revive his form back in Seville.
