Joe Rodon

Joe Rodon is a 28-year-old Welsh centre back currently playing for Leeds United in the Premier League, having established himself as one of the club's most reliable defensive figures since their top-flight return. He joined Leeds on a permanent basis in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee of around £11.8 million, following a successful loan spell that helped the club win the Championship title. That promotion was the catalyst for his move becoming permanent, and he has since made 29 appearances in the 2025/26 Premier League season, logging over 2,500 minutes of action.

Rodon has been a near ever-present in the Leeds backline this season, and his recent form reflects a defender growing into the demands of the top flight. His best performance across the last five matches came in a 1-1 draw at Aston Villa, where he earned a rating of 7.37 from SportSignals' AI analysis engine. He also put in composed displays in back-to-back goalless draws against Crystal Palace and Brentford, suggesting Leeds have found some defensive stability after a difficult mid-season period. His only below-par showing came in the home defeat to Manchester City, where he was substituted before the final whistle, though that result owed as much to the quality of the opposition as any individual error.

Across the full season his average rating of 6.72 places him in solid rather than spectacular territory, which is broadly fair for a defender on a team that has spent much of the campaign battling to consolidate in the Premier League. His two goals from 29 appearances are a useful contribution for a centre back, and his consistent selection signals that he is the first name on the teamsheet in his position. At international level, Rodon remains a key figure for Wales, bringing Premier League experience to a squad that continues to rebuild following their recent major tournament appearances.

In Leeds' upcoming fixtures, the focus will be on whether Rodon can maintain the defensive solidity seen in those recent draws, particularly against opponents who look to exploit space in behind. His aerial ability and reading of the game will be worth monitoring as Leeds navigate a congested run of matches in the second half of the season.