Mats Hummels has set the timeline for his return from injury as he eyes his first-ever appearance in the Roma shirt after joining the club as a free agent. During an interview with Corriere dello Sport, as reported by TMW, the 35-year-old set the date for his Giallorossi debut.
Hummels joined Roma on a Bosman deal in early September after running down his contract at Borussia Dortmund. However, several fitness setbacks have prevented the former Germany international from featuring for Ivan Juric’s team this season.
Juric planned to hand Hummels his maiden Serie A start against Monza last weekend. Yet, after reporting ill, the veteran center-back had to stay on the sidelines as Roma squandered a second-half lead in a 1-1 draw at the U-Power Stadium.
Disappointed with another omission, Hummels took to social media to share his frustration with a sarcastic message earlier this week. With the international break halting club season for a fortnight, the experienced defender has enough time to return to full fitness and help Roma navigate stern challenges on multiple fronts.
“It’s a shame I was ill last week,” the Roma ace said. “I had a fever and wasn’t able to set off for Monza, where I would have been a starter. I feel fit, I’m ready and good enough to play.
“I’m unlikely to start against Inter, but I’ll definitely play against Dynamo Kyiv,” Hummels was adamant.
Roma will need all hands on deck when club football returns next week as they entered October’s international break trailing Serie A leaders Napoli by six points.
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