Leeds United midfielder Marc Roca has revealed he’s gained nine kilos over the past few years, but feels ‘faster, strong, more dynamic’ than he did before.
The midfielder has been speaking in Spain regarding his situation this summer and move to Real Betis on loan from Leeds, with his comments relayed by Mucho Deporte.
The Spaniard left Elland Road on a temporary basis earlier this summer, taking advantage of a clause in his contract to get out of Leeds on the cheap following their relegation from the Premier League.
It means his stay with the club lasted just a year, having only joined Leeds last summer in a €12m deal from Bayern Munich.
His year in Yorkshire followed a two-year spell with the German giants, who he joined in a €9m deal from Espanyol in 2020.
It’s been a difficult few years for the Spaniard, who has revealed the changes in his life have not just been in terms of geography.
“On a physical level it is evident, in the end I went to Germany weighing 73 kilos, now I am at 81-82, that is a lot of kilos of muscle,” he said.
“I come back faster, stronger, I am a more dynamic player, that has helped me a lot. But not only physically, but also football-wise, when it comes to understanding the game, choosing the best option, knowing what the team needs, I have grown a lot in that aspect.”
“I usually meditate, the days before the game and the day itself. I focus on myself, I try to relax, see my inner world and try to visualize and calm my body to be at my best for the weekend, which is where I have to perform.
“That helps me to be very present and focused to bring out my best version.”
