JUST NOW:Ex-Leeds United man celebrating top flight promotion a year after his Elland Road departure
Joel Robles, the former Leeds United goalkeeper, is rejoicing in his promotion with Al-Qadsiah from the Saudi Arabian second tier. Last summer, Robles opted to join Al-Qadsiah instead of returning to Leeds United, where he could have trained, after his contract at Elland Road ended. This choice has proven to be fruitful as he played a pivotal role in securing promotion to the Saudi Pro League for Al-Qadsiah. Under the coaching of former Leeds striker Robbie Fowler, Robles has made 31 league appearances, maintaining 14 clean sheets and playing every minute of every game this season.
Expressing his delight on social media, Robles emphasized the team’s achievement and their determination to clinch the championship title. Despite signing a one-year deal with Al-Qadsiah, Robles aims to continue contributing to the team’s success in the top flight next season.
Robles’ tenure at Leeds United was brief, lasting only one season. Initially signed as a backup goalkeeper under Jesse Marsch, he swiftly rose in the ranks, becoming the preferred choice over Kristoffer Klaesson and challenging the first-choice goalkeeper, Illan Meslier. In the final stretch of the season, Robles was designated as the primary goalkeeper by Sam Allardyce for the last four matches in a bid to alter the team’s dynamics, albeit unable to avert relegation. He concluded his stint with Leeds, making a total of six appearances across all competitions, with his final match against Tottenham Hotspur on the season’s last day.
