Presenter KageyVision has said forward Rodrigo has never looked happier at Leeds United than he does now under new manager Jesse Marsch.
Since signing for the Whites back in the summer of 2020 from Valencia, the £26m man hasn’t always seemed like a natural fit for the Yorkshire club.
Indeed, a year after his move, journalist Phil Hay claimed that accommodating the striker within former manager Marcelo Bielsa’s setup had been a ‘quandary from the outset’.
However, in recent weeks under new boss Marsch, Rodrigo has really found his rhythm, scoring three in his last four outings – while helping his side go unbeaten in that period, too.
Will Rodrigo be a key player for Leeds under Jesse Marsch?
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In light of this change in fortunes, Kagey noted how the player now looks happy on and off the pitch and tipped him to maintain his form while working with the American manager.
Speaking on the One Leeds Fan Channel, he said: “It is good to see him in the vein he is in, even on like social media, I think this is the happiest I’ve ever seen the guy.
“Even the purple patch he had towards the end of last season, he wasn’t looking this comfortable. So I hope that he can continue this, and if he stays this way and in this form, he’ll be a valuable member of the squad next season, but he has to keep it up.
“Obviously, the larger sample size says he won’t. But I’m hoping that under Jessie Marsch and him being one of the main characters in the dressing room, it’s something that he relishes and wants to take towards him trying to get to the World Cup as well.
“At the moment, I’m optimistic with Rodrigo. I might be being silly, but I think that he’s going to come good for the rest of the season.”
TIF Thoughts on Rodrigo and Leeds…
Under former manager Bielsa, Rodrigo netted 10 goals in 50 appearances. Considering he has three strikes in six matches for Marsch, it’s clear to see the sudden improvement.
However, as Kagey warns, he might not be able to maintain this form in the long term. Saying that, he essentially averaged a goal contribution every other game at Valencia.
If he can reach that level again – which is what he is doing for his new boss so far – Leeds really could have a great asset on their hands.
It remains to be seen as to whether or not he can do this on a consistent basis, but the early signs are certainly promising for Rodrigo. With that in mind, it’s no wonder the Spaniard has been looking so happy of late.
In other news: Now or never: Bielsa favourite has six games to save Leeds career as rumour emerges – opinion