Rick Karsdorp wasn’t part of the match-day squad for Sunday’s match versus Torino after José Mourinho targeted him in a rant last week. The fullback practiced regularly afterward, but he wasn’t available.
According to Corriere della Sera, he left Italy with his family early, moving up his vacation. He had a rough couple of days following the tirade, as some fans came to his house to insult him. He posted a broken Giallorossi heart on Instagram after the draw with the Granata.
The Special One didn’t elaborate on the topic Sunday (via Ansa).
“I made the call to exclude Karsdorp, but I don’t have to explain everything. He and his teammates know. I don’t have to tell you journalists.”
CEO Tiago Pinto weighed in (via Corriere dello Sport).
“I don’t hide the issue, and you all saw what happened. We decided along with him that he would be better off not participating in this game. We have to do what is in the best interest of Roma. I’m sure we will find a solution that suits everybody.”
While a reconciliation can’t be outright excluded, it’s more likely that the Dutchman will leave in January, Corriere adds. On the other hand, he recently extended his contract and makes €2M per year. A loan spell would be easier to orchestrate than a sale. Juventus might take a flier on him, La Gazzetta dello Sport informs.
Our Take on Karsdorp
The fact that the window is just around the corner spares Roma of a lengthy controversy. The question is whether they can avoid replacing him, as Nicola Zalewski and Leonardo Spinazzola can both feature on the right flank, and Stephan El Shaarawy is a fine backup on the left.
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