Two months after his arrival, the German has only played 23 minutes against Fiorentina.

June 1, 2024. Mats Hummels, considered the finest center-back in the Champions League, leads Borussia Dortmund into the finale against Real Madrid of the extraterrestrials. He loses, but with his head held high. Three months later, he lands in the city of Rome, choosing it over other destinations. Anyone who paid even the slightest attention last year (or let’s say throughout his entire career) has no doubts: within a month, he takes the starting position and you won’t be able to move him out anymore. An incorrect prediction. Hummels plays for just 23 minutes, and not because of injuries or suspensions. Because those who follow him in Trigoria speak of him as an exemplary professional, who is doing well both physically and mentally. So why does Juric prefer Ndicka, Mancini, Hermoso, Angelino, Celik, and Cristante in that order? The Croatian coach talks about a “technical choice.” This is quite amusing considering the performance of the defenders in the last month. Behind the total rejection of Hummels, there could actually be a different reason. The jokes on social media posts by the German were not appreciated, who a month ago was mocking his first few weeks in Rome by posting pictures of him training or wandering around the city. It seems that the declaration made during a meeting with media partners a few days later was not appreciated: “I will make my debut against Dinamo Kiev.” A hint about the coach’s choices, a presumed arrogant assumption. Mats Hummels have always been accustomed to speaking openly with fans and media, to the point that in Germany, he’s considered an icon from this perspective. So, just a little bit then? It seems so. Even the teammates were quite taken aback yesterday when Juric announced his decision: “Cristante will play center defense.” There’s no need for us to explain the fans’ reaction, a glance at any social media channel would suffice. And Hummels? He takes it with a bitter smile. The former Bayern Munich defender and his family currently do not wish to stir controversy, but of course, they’re keeping a wary eye out for the January transfer window. The propositions are plentiful: ranging from Germany to Turkey, Arabia and Spain. During the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, many were astounded by his absence – and we’re talking about absolute stars of international football. But is it worth losing such a key player in a team that already struggles to display personality, even when addressing calls from the call center?