Leeds United’s Maximilian Wöber has told Kicker that Austria manager Ralf Rangnick had a role in his decision to join Borussia Mönchengladbach on a loan deal in the last window.
The Whites took the defender from Red Bull Salzburg last January and he was brought in to help them avoid relegation. That didn’t happen and the Leeds owned player didn’t enjoy the experience.
“It was really bad to be relegated. I really wouldn’t wish that feeling on any footballer,” he said.
The 25-year-old has been a regular for Austria in the last 18 months and his aim has been to represent his country at the Euros next summer, which was one of the reasons he left Leeds.
“He [Rangnick] communicated that you can only be in the national team if you regularly play at the highest level. It was clear to me I have to get back to the first league,” Wöber explained.
The centre-back has managed a goal and two assists from 17 appearances this season for the Bundesliga side.
Wöber’s performances seem to have convinced them to retain him beyond the loan spell. On December 7th, Rheinische Post reported Gladach have to make an effort financially to buy him from Daniel Farke’s side.
His deal at Leeds lasts until 2027 and he hasn’t ruled out a return to the English club after this season.
“Leeds are playing really good football at the moment and it looks like I’m taking a step back again,” he added.
“There are sporting directors and board members involved. If Leeds say I should go back, I’ll be back. If Gladbach put down so much money that it suits Leeds, then I’m there. I’m more like a passenger.”
This isn’t the first time Wöber has said that his future at Elland Road is not in his hands. Last month, the defender suggested he could return to Leeds at the end of this season.
