Leonardo Balerdi is living a new life in Italy. Transferred this summer from Olympique de Marseille to AS Roma, the Argentine defender quickly conquered his new environment. From his first appearances, the former Marseille captain seduced observers with his authority, his serenity and his ability to revive. Gian Piero Gasperini even went so far as to mention Franco Baresi, AC Milan legend, to illustrate the qualities of his new player. “A very strong, modern defender, with an exceptional and fast physique”explained the Italian technician, seduced by his way of interpreting the role and organizing the game. A particularly flattering comparison which caused a lot of noise on the other side of the Alps. Already very popular with Roman supporters, Balerdi is making a name for himself in a championship where central defenders are traditionally closely scrutinized.
And this beautiful story owes nothing to chance. For several weeks, the 27-year-old defender has been gaining momentum and stringing together convincing performances. Evan Ndicka’s physical problems opened a door for him, but the Argentinian was able to cross it with authority. Against Naples, he started on the bench after three consecutive starts, but was able to be the big hero of the match, proof of the growing confidence placed by Gasperini. Match after match, the former Marseillais gains weight in the Roman system, imposes himself in duels and assumes more responsibilities in the defensive organization. He who had sometimes been criticized for his irregularity in France seems to have found an environment in which to fully express his qualities. And his last outing at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium could well mark a new turning point in his Italian adventure.
A double that changed everything
Because against Naples, Leonardo Balerdi quite simply took on the role of great savior. In a completely crazy encounter, where the two teams went blow for blow, the Argentine defender allowed Roma to never give up. While the Neapolitans thought they had done the hard part by regaining the advantage thanks to Scott McTominay, the former OM player appeared for the first time to reset the counters. On a cross from Castro, the defender placed a decisive header to bring the Giallorossi to two goals in the 83rd minute. A gesture full of determination, like a Roman team which refused to give in. But Balerdi had not finished his recital, since in the last moments, he again found the fault with his head on a cross from Wesley, snatching an incredible draw (3-3) away. Two decisive goals for a central defender, in a totally stunning scenario.
“Balerdi is a leader, a captain. In recent weeks, his contribution has been extraordinary from the start. Balerdi knows football, has extraordinary energy and represents a valuable reinforcement. Today he even scored a double, which is excellent», rejoiced Gasperini after the meeting. Beyond his two achievements, it is above all his character that impresses. While Roma seemed doomed to leave Naples with a frustrating defeat, Balerdi took responsibility and became man of the match within 35 minutes. His double illustrates his rise in power, but also his ability to weigh in when his team needs it most. For a player who arrived this summer, already compared to a legend of Italian football by his coach, the symbol is very strong. Roman fans now have an additional reason to be enthusiastic about their new defender, capable of turning a match around in both areas. Serie A discovers a transformed Balerdi, conquering and decisive. And this performance confirms one thing, the Argentinian is taking on a whole new dimension under the colors of AS Roma.
