As the curtain closes on the transfer window, Roma’s fans were left with a mix of emotions in early September. The acquisition of Mario Hermoso and Mats Hummels was seen as a double coup, a double-edged sword that left many wondering what the future held. However, as the European campaign rages on, one player in particular has become the center of attention: Mats Hummels.
Despite arriving in the midst of a packed summer, the former Borussia Dortmund stalwart has yet to make an outing for the Giallorossi. Seven appearances, all from the bench, are all he has to his name since joining the capital club. It’s been a frustrating wait for the German defender, and even social media has not gone unnoticed. In his online feeds, Hummels has teased fans with glimpses into his life in Rome, posting photos of his daily routine and training sessions. His handlers will surely get asked when fans can see him in action on the pitch. “They’ll be here soon, I think,” is his cryptic reply, leaving fans holding their collective breath.
Since the match against Dinamo Kiev, rumors have only grown, with whispers of an impending debut on the lips of fans and pundits alike. Ivan Juric, Roma’s tactician, has been keen to downplay expectations, attributing the hold-up to Hummels’ adaptation to the team’s system. “He’s a great professional,” the coach said, “I’m not letting him play but he doesn’t miss a workout. Where do I see it? In the position of N’Dicka, who has grown a lot and is doing well.” It’s a message that will fuel speculation, as fans try to decipher the code behind Hummels’ slow start.
The acquisition of Hummels has been a long and arduous process, dating back to August when, with the transfer window finally closed, the Giallorossi took two surprise maneuvers: the signing of Hermoso and Hummels, both free agents. Once considered, but ultimately shelved, were several other options, including Danso and Djalo, who both made it to Rome for medical tests before ultimately departing. Now, with De Rossi eschewing the role, it’s clear that Hummels’ moment has not yet arrived, leaving fans wondering when they’ll get to see the 88-year-old summer training in action.
