Bayer Leverkusen have bolstered their defensive options by securing Spanish defender Mario Hermoso on a six-month loan from Roma. The 29-year-old versatile defender will add depth and flexibility to Xabi Alonso’s championship-winning squad for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season.
Hermoso arrives with a wealth of experience, having previously spent five successful seasons with Atlético Madrid, where he won the La Liga title in the 2020-2021 season. Since joining Roma last summer, he made 13 appearances and scored one goal for the Italian side.
The Spanish international brings exceptional versatility to Leverkusen’s backline, capable of playing both as a central defender and left-back. Sporting director Simon Rolfes highlighted Hermoso’s ability to provide “additional versatility” and compensate for the absence of Jeanuël Belocian.
“I’m really looking forward to striving for big goals with the Werkself,” Hermoso said upon completing the move. “The conditions are there to have a successful season.”
The transfer comes at a crucial time for Leverkusen, who currently sit second in the Bundesliga, just six points behind Bayern Munich. With Hermoso’s arrival, the team aims to maintain their title challenge and continue their impressive run under coach Xabi Alonso.
