Diego Llorente played every minute for Leeds United in the first six league games before he lost prominence this season.
Since September, the centre-back made two appearances and the lack of opportunities with the Whites convinced him to join AS Roma on loan in the winter market.
The Leeds United player’s situation hasn’t improved since he moved to Italy. He came off the bench against Empoli in February and that has been his only outing with the Serie A side.
José Mourinho’s side face the defender’s former club, Real Sociedad, in the Europa League on Thursday. The Leeds man was a guest on Cadena Ser’s SER Deportivo Gipuzkoa, to preview the midweek clash between the two clubs.
“Since I left the paths had separated and we had not come together again. And now in a matter of a month I have gone from playing against Real with Leeds [friendlies], although I was injured, and now with Roma in the Europa League. I’m sure it will be a nice duel,” he said.
The Spain international left Real Sociedad for Leeds in 2020 and on his quick exit from the La Liga side, he explained: “In the end when I have doubts, I don’t take the step, because if you don’t think a lot in the end you don’t decide. I am a very determined person, after assessing that all parties win.”
Llorente also discussed his current situation at Roma. The defender stressed: “I just came recently. It’s a club with high-level players, with a very particular style of play. And it’s not easy to win a place. But I am happy with my day-to-day work, and I am prepared to take advantage of the opportunity when it presents itself.”
The player also revealed he quickly jumped at the opportunity to leave Leeds after having a chat with Mourinho, who managed him at Real Madrid in the past.
“Yes of course. It was one of the factors that led me to make the decision. An important coach in my early days, he gave me confidence and gave me my debut. And that for a young boy that is something unforgettable. When he called me again, I didn’t hesitate,” he added.
