Jean-Matteo Bahoya in action for Leeds on the right, and James Trafford warming up for Leeds on the left in a split image

Jean-Matteo Bahoya and James TraffordBreaking Media and Imago

James Trafford instantly responds to Jean-Matteo Bahoya joy away from Leeds United

Assistant Editor AUTHORITY Senior editor and writer responsible for daily news flow, editorial standards, and active contribution across the site network. FOCUS Editorial oversight, newsroom workflow, verified reporting, and original content. THE BRIEF Former Sports Mole correspondent Daniel manages the network’s daily output, working between reporters and experts to ensure accuracy and speed. As a senior contributor, he also writes and publishes original content across the network.

Published on:

01 Oct 2026, 7:44 am

Jean-Matteo Bahoya is having a great time of things away from Leeds United.

The deadline day signing from Eintracht Frankfurt has so far made just one appearance for the Whites.

That was for the final seconds of the goalless draw against Crystal Palace in the final game before the international break.

Bahoya is now away with France Under-21s for their latest batch of U21 European Championships qualifiers.

The 21-year-old played against Iceland last week and made a telling impact in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Estonia.

Bahoya has basked in that win on social media, with James Trafford quick to react to the post.

What did James Trafford say in reply to Jean-Matteo Bahoya?

Bahoya seriously impressed for France U21s, with the winger getting on the scoresheet in a 2-0 away win.

France will be among the favourites at next year's Euro U21 Championship finals, which they are on the verge of qualifying for.

In a post on his personal Instagram page on Wednesday, Bahoya wrote: "One step closer to the goal."

Trafford responded with "Mon gar", which translates to 'my guy', along with five love heart emojis.

View this post on Instagram

Bahoya replied in kind with three love hearts of his own, showing the bond already between the two Elland Road summer arrivals.

Jean-Matteo Bahoya leaves Daniel Farke with no more excuses at Leeds United after France U21s exploits

Is now the time for Daniel Farke to throw in Bahoya?

Bahoya has been hyped up a lot, but Leeds fans have only seen him have a handful of touches of the ball so far.

That is mainly down to Daniel Farke looking to slowly integrate him into the side after recovering from injury, which is fair enough.

However, it is clear the Frenchman could have been used earlier against Palace, with more creativity needed.

Bahoya is certainly proving his fitness away on international duty, but the question is whether Farke feels ready to use him from the off against Arsenal in nine days' time?

The most likely outcome is Bahoya is again used as a substitute, depending on the game state, albeit likely earlier than we saw against Palace.

As a reminder, Leeds have an obligation to buy Bahoya permanently next summer, so he will be around at Elland Road for a while longer yet.

Daniel Farke