Mats Hummels has found his role at AS Roma. Coach Claudio Ranieri is counting on the world champion – certainly also in the derby against Lazio Rome.
If coach Claudio Ranieri is to be believed, the “eternal city” of Rome has recently added another attraction to its rich portfolio. Anyone who gets lost in the Stadio Olimpico after a tour of the Pantheon, Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain can finally marvel at Mats Hummels at work. “A monument” is the former German national player, Ranieri recently said: “And indispensable for me.”
From reservist to indispensable Size
The full support of the coach, encouragement from the fans and eloquent praise from the Italian press – everything ultimately came together for the 36-year-old Hummels. After a bumpy start, the 2014 world champion at AS Roma has risen from a reservist and supposed transfer flop to an indispensable player. Hummels has fought for a regular place in central defense.
“Professor Hummels”as the Italian press dubbed him, should be back in the starting line-up for the city derby on Sunday (January 5, 2025) against Lazio. Hummels’ rise is closely linked to the experienced Ranieri. The Roman native appreciates the German’s qualities – on and off the pitch. Hummels is world champion, a leader and an example of professionalism. “If the young professionals are intelligent, they appreciate it and learn from it”said Ranieri.
“Unusual situation”
His predecessor Ivan Juric had not found a suitable role for Hummels. The former Bayern and BVB star only played once: in the 5-1 defeat in Florence, where he also scored an own goal. “It was an unusual situation, in my 18-year career I have always shown my worth, even in important games”Hummels told the Roman daily “Il Messaggero”: “It was a moment when everything went wrong.”
Juric, with whom he maintained a respectful relationship, gave him “Given no chance to play.” Hummels accepted his situation, continued working and waited for a new opportunity. That happened in November with Ranieri. The Italian has “Left no doubt that I would play an important role for him. He told me straight away that he would let me play and that I had his trust.”
Ranieri and Hummels – that fits
Ranieri is “a great coach”Hummels explained: “He has natural charisma. He understands players and doesn’t need to raise his voice so that the players listen to him.”
So the chemistry between Ranieri and Hummels is right. This is also likely to play a role in the expected talks about an extension of Hummels’ contract, which expires in the summer. “If I decide to stay in Rome, I would be delighted to continue being coached by Ranieri”said Hummels.
Ranieri’s contract also only runs until the end of June. After that, the old master should actually take on an advisory role in the club. Maybe Ranieri will postpone his coaching retirement after all. If Mats Hummels were to say goodbye, his hometown of Rome would also be one “monument” poorer.
Alexander Lorenz, sports show, September 4th, 2024 9:08 p.m