Ranieri: I ‘understand’ Hermoso leaving Roma

Mario Hermoso is on the verge of joining Bayer Leverkusen from Roma, and Claudio Ranieri admits he understands why the Spaniard wants to leave.

The Giallorossi are preparing for a crucial Europa League match against Eintracht Frankfurt and will need a win tomorrow to be sure to qualify for the play-off knockout stage without relying on results from other teams.

“Every match is important to us and for the team’s growth. We must do well in every game and see where we can get,” Ranieri said at a press conference.

Ranieri: I ‘understand’ Hermoso leaving Roma

Spanish defender Hermoso won’t be available as he’s preparing for a permanent transfer to Bayer Leverkusen.

“I’ll only answer transfer questions about Hermoso,” said Ranieri.

“I really like him but I’ve started with specific players. He is in good shape, but he wants to play. He wants more playing time, and I understand his decision to leave. He deserves to play.”

There are rumours that Leandro Paredes could also leave Roma this month, but Ranieri hasn’t heard from the midfielder that he wants to depart.

“I hear all the rumours about Leandro from you,” he admitted.

“As I told Hermoso, I won’t keep anyone here if they don’t want to stay. Cristante is a revitalised player. He could be the replacement. Perhaps he won’t play vertically, but he has other qualities.”