It only took Leonardo Balerdi about twenty minutes to make a name for himself in Italy. Transferred from OM this summer, the Argentine defender made his debut with AS Roma during the Giallorossi’s stunning victory against Atalanta (2-1). Entering the game at the end of the match, the former Marseillais immediately displayed a certain serenity and real authority in his interventions. Enough to put the Roman supports in your pocket in a few minutes.
His first appearance did not go unnoticed in the Italian press. Il Messaggero gave it a score of 6.5, as did La Gazzetta dello Sportwhile Il Tempo gave him a 7. Compliments were also numerous in the Italian media: “personality to spare”, “a valuable player”, “he is getting into his new club very well”, “Balerdi’s decisive entry”or even “he didn’t miss anything”. A particularly encouraging start for a player whose arrival necessarily aroused anticipation.
Balerdi has a shot to play
Because in Marseille, Leonardo Balerdi has often divided. Capable of impressive performances, the 27-year-old defender has also regularly been heavily criticized for his irregularity and certain errors. The Argentinian international was also singled out for his lack of leadership and character at times in the Marseille context. But for his first under Roman colors, the Argentinian seems to have made everyone agree. “He’s going to play a lot”estimates in particular the Italian press, which also welcomed its “many great advances” And “his ability to take responsibility“. In a three-way defense, he risks quickly shaking up the hierarchy.
Among the supporters, the enthusiasm is already palpable. “Guys, but Balerdi, damn, is he strong. In Marseille, they are really stupid”thus launched a Roman supporter on X. “Monstrous player this Balerdi. Mamma mia, what a mind-blowing entry! »we can also read, while another supporter admits “I didn’t know the elegance and defensive cleanliness of Balerdi, great discovery”. After only one match, Leonardo Balerdi seems to have quickly won over his new audience. It is now up to him to confirm over time because it is his irregularity that has often failed him.
