Former Roma midfielder Gonzalo Villar reminisced about his most memorable years in the Italian capital.
In a recent conversation with Gianlucadimarzio.it, Villar reflected on his time at Roma, expressed a wish to return, discussed Paulo Fonseca’s influence on his career, and considered the prospect of playing again under Daniele De Rossi’s management.
“Those were two significant years in my life that I think about often. I’ve become a fan of Giallorossi: I always keep an eye on Roma’s games and hope we can achieve great results this season,” stated the Spanish midfielder, who made 64 appearances before permanently departing the club in January of last year.
“It’s unfortunate that I left because I believe De Rossi would have given me another chance to start over,” he remarked.
“As for De Rossi? We’ve had several conversations recently. I conveyed my desire to work with him, and he mentioned that he would have liked to include me in his squad as well. He harbors some excellent football ideas; I’m confident he’ll evolve into a fantastic coach.”
The pinnacle of Villar’s career occurred during Paulo Fonseca’s final season with the Giallorossi—the 2020-21 campaign—where Gonzalo participated in 47 matches and secured a starting position on the U21 national team under De La Fuente. “I felt really good; on the field, I repaid the trust bestowed upon me by my coach. I played freely and with joy.”
<p“In midfield alongside Mkhitaryan, Pellegrini, and Veretout, we had an enjoyable time together. It was disappointing to miss out on some victories against stronger teams; not having defeated United in the Europa League semi-final remains a bittersweet memory.”
<p“What can be said about Fonseca? Milan acquires not just a 'name' but rather someone genuinely invested in football. I wish him all the best while secretly hoping Roma can finish even higher than his Milan side.”
<p“Mourinho? Spending twenty days solely watching from the bench is quite challenging mentally. There was no spark under Mou; from day one, there seemed to be something about me he didn’t appreciate. Despite putting in hard work daily for another opportunity, it never arose.”
<p“What is my dream? Deep down, I truly want to return to Roma: my career felt truncated at its peak performance level. One day I'd love to turn that page again—I feel like there's still so much more for me to contribute as a footballer.”
Gonzalo Villar Reflects on His Time at Roma: A Desire to Return and Fond Memories of Paulo Fonseca
Gonzalo Villar: An Overview
Gonzalo Villar, the talented Spanish midfielder, made his mark at AS Roma during his time in the Serie A. Known for his vision, technical skills, and creativity on the field, Villar quickly became a fan favorite. His journey at Roma was marked by a transformative experience that not only shaped his career but also left him with cherished memories, especially of his relationship with former coach Paulo Fonseca.
Career Highlights at AS Roma
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | 35 | 2 | 3 |
| 2021-22 | 20 | 1 | 2 |
His Fond Memories of Paulo Fonseca
Villar’s time at Roma was significantly influenced by Paulo Fonseca, who managed the team from 2019 to 2021. The two shared a strong rapport that went beyond the tactical aspects of football. Here are some key reflections from Villar about Fonseca:
- Supportive Environment: Villar noted how Fonseca created a nurturing atmosphere that encouraged players to express themselves on the pitch.
- Development of Young Talent: Under Fonseca’s guidance, Villar felt he had the freedom to learn and grow, which helped elevate his game significantly.
- Team Chemistry: The coach emphasized building strong relationships among players, which contributed to the team’s success during critical matches.
The Journey of Returning to Roma
As Gonzalo Villar continues his career, he has openly expressed a desire to return to AS Roma. Here are some reasons behind his longing:
1. Emotional Connection
Villar developed a strong emotional bond with the club, its fans, and the culture of Rome. The vibrant atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico and the passionate support from the Tifosi have left a lasting impression on him.
2. Positive Experiences
His memories of playing in key matches, especially in Europe, remain vivid. Villar recalls the exhilarating feeling of representing Roma in high-stakes games, which fueled his passion for the sport.
3. Unfinished Business
Villar feels that he still has much to offer and believes that a return would allow him to fulfil his potential at the club he holds dear. The desire to compete at the highest level and contribute to Roma’s successes motivates him to seek ways to come back.
Gonzalo Villar’s Playing Style
Villar’s unique playing style sets him apart from many midfielders in Serie A. Here are key attributes that define his game:
- Vision and Passing: Villar’s ability to read the game allows him to make split-second decisions, often leading to incisive passes that break the opponent’s defensive lines.
- Defensive Contributions: While primarily an attacking midfielder, he is also known for his work rate and willingness to track back and support the defense.
- Set-Piece Specialist: Villar has demonstrated proficiency in taking set pieces, providing additional attacking options for his team.
First-Hand Experiences: Players’ Perspectives
Villar’s experience at Roma has been echoed by many teammates who have spoken highly of both him and Fonseca. Here are a few notable perspectives:
- Team Spirit: Players have remarked on Villar’s ability to lift team morale, contributing to a positive locker room environment.
- Learning from Legends: Several veterans in the squad shared their insights with Villar, helping him sharpen his skills and adapt to the competitive landscape of Serie A.
- Friendship with Peers: Many players forged bonds that extended beyond the pitch, creating a sense of family that Villar cherishes.
Benefits of Villar’s Return
If Gonzalo Villar were to return to AS Roma, the potential benefits could be substantial:
- Experience in the Squad: Villar brings valuable experience from both domestic and international competitions, enhancing the squad’s depth.
- Increased Creativity: His attacking mindset could help unlock defenses, especially in tightly contested matches.
- Youth and Energy: Villar’s youthful exuberance would inject fresh energy into the team, vital for a long and grueling season.
Case Study: Similar Player Returns in Football
Football history is replete with examples of players returning to former clubs and making significant impacts. Here are a few cases that provide insights into Villar’s potential return:
| Player | Original Club | Returning Club | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fernando Torres | Liverpool | Chelsea | Scored the winner in the Champions League semi-final |
| Paul Pogba | Juventus | Manchester United | Revitalized the midfield with creativity and skill |
| Yaya Toure | Barcelona | Manchester City | Key player in multiple title wins |
Practical Tips for Young Midfielders
For young midfielders aspiring to achieve success similar to Villar, here are some practical tips:
- Focus on Skill Development: Regularly practice dribbling, passing, and shooting to enhance your overall skill set.
- Study the Game: Analyze matches of top midfielders to understand positioning, movement, and decision-making.
- Build Physical Fitness: A strong physical foundation is crucial; integrate strength, speed, and endurance training into your routine.
- Learn from Coaches: Take advantage of coaching insights and feedback to refine your game.
Conclusion
Through his reflections on his time at AS Roma, Gonzalo Villar not only reveals his deep connection to the club but also highlights the invaluable experiences he gained under Paulo Fonseca’s tutelage. His desire to return to Roma reflects his ambition and the significant impact the club has had on his career. As fans continue to hope for his return, Villar’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing talent and the bonds formed in the world of football.
