Name: Alessio Romagnoli

Club: AS Roma                                                                                                                

Nationality: Italian

Position: Defender

 

Who is he?

When Roma legend Francesco Totti made his Serie A debut with the capital club in 1993, Alessio Romagnoli hadn’t even been born yet. But during last week’s 3 – 1 win over Genoa, the 18-year-old started the game alongside the club hero who is exactly twice his age. Totti provided the assist for Romagnoli’s first senior goal, just three months after he made his club debut.

 

Achievements

The centre back who turned 18 on January 12^th, has represented Italy at U16, U18 and U19 level, correlating with his rise through the Roma youth ranks. Romagnoli made his Serie A debut when he came on as a sub in the 80^th minute – replacing Totti - in a 4 – 2 win over AC Milan in late December.

 

Attributes

Originally an attacking midfielder when he was scouted by Roma aged 9, the 1m85 youngster was converted into a defender where his height and reading of the game have been put to better use. Roma currently utilize a back three and the left-footed youngster has been stationed as a left-sided centre-back. As he showed when scoring against Genoa (watch below), he is strong in the air.

 

Potential

He has been impressive since his debut against AC Milan in December but it is very early in his giallorossi career, having made just three league and cup appearances. However he has drawn praise from the likes of Totti for his performances, while his contract expires in 2016. If he can maintain his current form, that deal will surely be extended.

Plays a bit like…Romagnoli has revealed that his idol is former Milan and Italy legend Paolo Maldini, the greatest left-sided defender of them all. If he can match half of Maldini's achievements, he'll be doing well.