Houssem Aouar: a fresh start in Rome
Houssem Aouar begins his Roman adventure against Salernitana on Sunday 20 August, on Serie A matchday 1.
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Leaving Lyon behind, Houssem Aouar has found a new home in Rome. After joining Lyon's academy in 2009, the now Algeria international played for the Gones from 2016 to 2023, even captaining them on several occasions. But injuries, poor form and his refusal to extend his contract meant the end of his relationship with the club that developed him did not go as planned. Available on a free transfer, the midfielder ultimately joined AS Roma. Their pre-season games seem to offer a clue to what lies ahead.
In José Mourinho's 3-5-2, Houssem Aouar is being used as the left-sided central midfielder. La Gazzetta dello Sport devoted an article to him on Friday 18 August, which included these words: "Watching him play is a delight because he is so comfortable on the ball (...) He is a talented player who showed what he could do this summer".
The aim: consistency
Houssem Aouar impressed in pre-season, even scoring a fine goal. Nevertheless, the biggest test will be his ability to put together a consistent run of matches and performances. The 25-year-old player is coming off a season with only 18 appearances and 6 starts, scoring just one goal and providing one assist.
Aouar will therefore be expected to deliver this season. The first step in his new life comes at home against Salernitana on Sunday 20 August at 16:30 GMT, on Serie A matchday 1.