Earlier today, we covered the quotes from José Mourinho regarding Diego Llorente’s first performance as a starter for AS Roma in Serie A.
They overcame Sampdoria in a 3-0 win, and the Spaniard, who left Leeds United in January on loan until the end of the season with an option to buy, was handed a rare opportunity to impress from the off.
He did, and he was praised by Mourinho, which clearly delighted the player, as he responded to his manager in an interview after the game with DAZN, relayed by Numero Diez.
The Leeds loanee said: “It’s always nice to hear the words of the manager towards me. When Mourinho called me, I thought it was a unique opportunity. I immediately said yes. I’m working hard to be important for this Roma.”
The fact an option to buy was included in the loan suggested the Elland Road side wouldn’t be too sad to see him stay in Italy at the end of the season, and it appears this is something that’s in the defender’s head, as he gave no sign of wanting to return to Yorkshire.
The Leeds man continued: “I am very happy for myself and for the team. Luckily, I come from a team that played with four at the back, so there were no problems. I’m learning a lot here and Spinazzola and Smalling helped me a lot today. The important thing was to play and do it in the best way.”
The 29-year-old was signed by Leeds from Real Sociedad back in 2020 for €20m, but he never really managed to fully convince Jesse Marsch following the American’s takeover of the team.
He spent most of his time on the bench from October onwards, which led to the desire to try something new down the player’s end, eventually getting it with this loan to Roma.
