After a frustrating start to life in the Italian capital, Diego Llorente has finally made his full Serie A debut this weekend, helping Roma to a 3-0 win over Sampdoria on Sunday.
Diego Llorente left Leeds United on loan during the January transfer window just weeks after signing a new contract at Elland Road. Unfortunately, his time with Jose Mourinho’s side took time to get going.
In fact, Llorente went into Sunday having only made two appearances in Serie A for the Giallorossi. And he was still awaiting the chance to start in the top-flight.
But that run is now over. And he helped Roma to a win, with the home side scoring twice late on to seal the points.
Diego Llorente makes first league start for Roma
Llorente made five clearances and won more aerial duels than anyone else on the pitch, according to Whoscored. He also ended up having three attempts on goal.
Calciomercato.It have given their player ratings following the game. And only a couple of players received a higher rating than the 6.5 Llorente was given for his performance.
“There was a wait for his performance,” they wrote. “He doesn’t pay too much attention to the subtle and clears as soon as he can to avoid dangers. He even went close to the goal, as the minutes went by he acquired confidence. Good test.”
There is a question mark over Llorente’s future at Leeds. Obviously, if we go down, you would imagine that the 29-year-old will be one of the first players to find a new club.
Roma do have an option to make his permanent. But, from the outside, it really does feel that something drastic has to happen before Mourinho’s men look to keep Llorente beyond his loan spell.
A first league start and a clean sheet is definitely a step in the right direction.
Unfortunately, few fans probably want to see Llorente back in the fold upon his return. He has struggled for much of his spell at Leeds.
A bright end to the campaign may increase the likelihood of a move away that is surely best for all parties at this stage.
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