Chris Smalling had a better time in Italy than many expected last season, but it’s still not enough to convince anyone that he’s smart enough to be Harry Maguire’s defensive spouse next season.
Obviously, it had enough effect for Rome to review it to turn its assignment into a permanent move, but the saga lasted for weeks and nothing was completed.
Smalling himself admitted that he gutted that the move did not happen, however, he is now back at Old Trafford until everything is fixed.
It’s hard to see a scenario in which man United’s first team is making their way, so enthusiasts at any of the clubs will be interested in being informed that Roma has reopened discussions to verify and close the deal:
– Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) September 2, 2020
Smalling’s biggest challenge at Old Trafford was that he seemed terrified of the ball and other groups would take advantage of it by leaving it open before applying pressure.
You may see that this provokes him and that his confidence begins to tremble, but he seemed suitable for Serie A, where he only had to concentrate on defense and a permanent movement to Rome would be a smart thing for him.
There is no sign that other groups are showing interest, so United deserves to take what it can and move on, so that happens soon enough.