Matthew Joseph, born in Santander In 2003, he began his career in the modest Escobedo de Camargo and then in the quarry Santander Racing. At the age of 16, he signed with the Spanish in 2019, a move that quickly opened doors to English football.
In 2022, he signed for the Leeds Uniteda team that trusted in its potential thanks to the support of the then sports director Victor Orta. Mateo’s story is one of constant growth, from his first steps in grassroots football to the demanding world of EFL Championshipwhere he has had to adapt to a frenetic and demanding pace.
The decision to play for Spain: change of course
Although Joseph played with the England youth teams, his connection with Spain and his desire to represent his mother’s country were decisive. With a Spanish mother and a British father, and being the nephew of the former English international Emile HeskeyMateo had the option of competing for three countries: Spain, England and Antigua and Barbuda.
His change to the Spanish under-21 team was a coup, leaving behind the England shirt and betting on a future with “La Rojita”. With Spain, Mateo has become a reference, showing his goal-scoring skills and averaging 1.25 goals per game in the classification for the U21 Euro Cup 2025.
Mateo Joseph, an express scorer with his own style
In Spain’s recent victory by 4-3 against KazakhstanJoseph scored a hat-trick in just 44 minutesreaffirming his ability to define matches. With a height of 1.85 metersMateo defines himself as a forward fast and powerful. He himself has stated that he likes to take advantage of his speed and move into space, but he is also comfortable receiving the ball and falling to the side when necessary.
His contract with Leeds United extends until 2028which ensures him time to develop in a league as competitive as the English one. In the current season, he has played nine gamesachieving a goal and an assist, numbers that predict a promising future.
Mateo Joseph, a player with talent and determination, promises to continue growing and leave his mark on Spanish and European football. With her decision to represent Spain, she has demonstrated her commitment and ambition, while becoming a offensive reference for the under-21 team.