Mario Hermoso, a 29-year-old Spanish defender, left Atlético de Madrid last summer as a free agent after not accepting a reduced renewal offer from the Colchonero club. He chose to sign with AS Roma, where his performance hasn't met expectations. Six months later, the Italian club is seeking an exit for him, and his next destination could be Bayer Leverkusen.
Mario Hermoso's Career
Trained in the youth ranks of Real Madrid, Hermoso debuted with Real Madrid Castilla in 2014, and after a loan to Real Valladolid, he joined RCD Espanyol in 2017. His good performance led him to Atlético de Madrid in 2019, where he remained until 2024. During his time at Atlético de Madrid under Simeone's management, Hermoso played 31 matches in his last season.
In the summer of 2024, Hermoso signed a three-year contract with AS Roma, but his time in Italy hasn't been as expected. He has participated in 13 matches since his arrival, playing only five in full, and has recently accumulated six consecutive substitutions. This situation has led the club to consider his departure in the winter market.
Bayer Leverkusen, led by Xabi Alonso, has shown interest in acquiring Hermoso to strengthen their defense. Negotiations between both clubs are advanced, and the transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming days. Besides Leverkusen, Fenerbahçe under Mourinho has also shown interest in the Spanish defender, but the German club seems to be the most likely destination.
Reflections on His Departure from Atlético De Madrid
Hermoso's decision not to accept the reduced renewal offer from Atlético de Madrid and his subsequent signing with Roma have sparked debate. His performance in Italy has been modest, which could justify Atlético's stance in offering him a renewal with lower conditions. This situation reinforces the idea that the Madrid club, under Simeone's management, correctly assessed the player's importance in their team.
Mario Hermoso, after an unsuccessful stint at AS Roma, is close to joining Bayer Leverkusen. His time in Italy hasn't been as expected, and his potential move to the Bundesliga represents a new opportunity for the Spanish defender. Time will tell if this decision allows him to regain his best form and establish himself in European soccer.