It took a while but Chris Smalling is returning to AS Roma and this time for good. After weeks of negotiations, Manchester United and Roma finally came to an agreement that would see the 30-year-old center back return to Stadio Olimpico for good. It also puts to rest questions surrounding the English footballer’s future.
According to Goal, the finalized deal is worth $17 million and will also include $6 million in add-ons. It will span three years, meaning Smalling will stay with La Lupa until 2023.
It is a big sigh of relief for Smalling who returned to Old Trafford following a season-long loan deal. A return to United made no sense for the 30-year-old player with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having no spot for the English player. This is despite Smalling’s performance last season which captured the attention of several clubs. Aside from Roma, Inter Milan and New Castle are believed to be clubs that expressed interest in the center-back.
I arrived last summer, and although temporary at the time, I knew instantly it would be my permanent home. Cannot wait to get started again, the journey continues, enjoy the ride! ️ pic.twitter.com/MyoAtrN1pQ — Chris Smalling (@ChrisSmalling) October 6, 2020
“Nothing in life worth having comes easy,” Smalling said via Roma’s official site. “My head and my heart has always been in Rome. I am delighted to now be yours. Daje Roma!”
Smalling arrived at Old Trafford from Fulham in 2010. He scored 18 goals in 323 appearances for the Red Devils. Aside from that, the 30-year-old was part of several titles that United won. That includes being a member of the Premier League champion squads during the 2010-11 and 2012-13 seasons. Other than that, he also has the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Europa League titles tucked under his belt.
Manchester United thanks Smalling for his years of service and wish him all the best. This was the statement of the club posted via the club’s official website.
“Everyone at Manchester United would like to thank Chris for his years of service and dedication, and wish him all the best for his future,” the statement read.
With Roma last season, Smalling made a good account of himself. He played in 30 games and scored three goals. His effort was enough to help Roma finish fifth in Serie A. Now, he gets the chance to return to the same spot he vacated under Paulo Fonseca.
Roma signed Marash Kumbulla from Hellas Verona to fill in that void but it appears Smalling will reclaim that spot. The good news is that both players now add more depth to the defense of La Magica as they prepare for Serie A and the Europa League.
