Angola boss Pedro Gonçalves has been speaking to MARCA about Helder Costa, who is starting to thrive while on loan at Valencia from Leeds.
What’s the story?
Well, the 27-year-old Leeds forward joined Valencia on a season-long loan back in August, and after a slow start, things are going well.
Costa has broken into the starting XI, and also made his debut for Angola after pledging his allegiance to them, despite playing for Portugal at every age ranking.
On the topic of that decision, Gonçalves is delighted to have the £16m man on board, and praised him for his attitude.
The 45-year-old told MARCA: “Helder Costa, respecting everyone, can be like our Cristiano; he’s our star.
“I’m delighted with his behaviour and attitude. He acts like one of us and has adapted with personality and humanity. He hasn’t arrived saying ‘I’m a star’. He has given his all and is a reference for the emerging values of this country.”
It’s worth noting that Costa also scored on his debut for Angola, netting against Mohamed Salah’s Egypt on Friday 12th November.
Having played for Portugal, and at the top level in England and Spain, it perhaps would’ve been easy for Costa to turn up and think he’s better than everyone else at Angola.
However, he seems to have shown real professionalism and humility after switching his national allegiance.
What should Leeds do with Helder Costa?
Well, Marcelo Bielsa may have no choice but to take the former Wolves winger back at Elland Road this summer.
According to Super Deporte, Valencia are struggling financially, and won’t be able to afford the signing of Costa on a permanent basis.
That comes despite the fact they hold an option to buy the forward.
So, should Bielsa reinstate Costa at Leeds?
In our view, there’s no harm in letting him compete with Jack Harrison and Dan James if another club doesn’t come forward to sign him.
Costa has impressed at Valencia, and another shot at Leeds would be a justified reward for his attitude.
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