Leeds United defender Max Wober made headlines during Austria’s Euro 2024 opener against France – but for all the wrong reasons.
Wober started the game for Ralf Rangnick’s side at the Düsseldorf Arena in Germany, playing as the left-sided centre-back and managed to keep a star-studded France side at bay for the majority of the first half.
Shortly before half-time, though, Wober had the misfortune of heading Kylian Mbappe’s cross into his own net beyond goalkeeper Patrick Pentz to give Les Bleus the lead.
The moment represented a cruel irony given Wober’s reasoning for leaving Elland Road on loan last summer to Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach. The 26-year-old posted a message to Leeds supporters on social media last July after his move had been confirmed, stating it was his desire to be selected for the European Championships that motivated his decision to depart West Yorkshire following relegation, just six months on from joining the club.
“I’m telling you with a very heavy heart that I’m leaving Leeds United for coming season on loan. I’m forever grateful for the support you gave me from the minute I set foot on Elland Road. It really means a lot to me. I totally understand the disappointment with some of you. But for me it is a necessary step to show myself at the highest level and to be able to secure a spot in the national team of Austria for the Euros in 2024. I can only wish the club all the best during the time that I’m away, I’ll be supporting you no matter what, wherever I go,” Wober wrote.
The defender was also shown a yellow card during the 16th minute of Austria’s encounter with France for a late challenge on Ousmane Dembele and subsequently substituted before the hour mark.
At half-time, ITV Sport pundits Roy Keane and Gary Neville described Wober’s own goal as a ‘mess in the middle’ and an example of ‘really poor defending’.
Wober remains contracted to Leeds and will be expected to return to Thorp Arch ahead of the 2024/25 Championship campaign if a second successive loan move or permanent exit cannot be agreed before the beginning of pre-season.
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