Mario Hermoso joins Bayer Leverkusen on loan from Roma until the end of the season, strengthening the German champions' defense as they push for Bundesliga and European success.
Bayer Leverkusen has secured a significant reinforcement for the second half of the season with the signing of Spanish center-back Mario Hermoso, who arrives on loan from Roma until June 30, 2025.
The announcement was made this Friday, confirming the 29-year-old’s move to the reigning German champions and current Bundesliga runners-up. The signing is seen as a statement of intent from Xabi Alonso’s team as they continue their push for domestic and European success.
Hermoso, known for his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and versatility in defensive roles, will be a valuable addition to Leverkusen’s backline. The Spaniard primarily operates as a left-footed center-back but is also capable of playing as a full-back if needed, making him a flexible option for Alonso. His experience at top clubs, including Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid’s academy, adds another layer of depth to a Leverkusen squad that has been impressively solid throughout the season.
The German club expressed their excitement about the signing, highlighting the qualities that made Hermoso an attractive target. "Bayer 04 Leverkusen has signed Spanish central defender Mario Hermoso. The 29-year-old player joins the German champions and Cup winners immediately from Roma on loan until June 30, 2025," read the club’s official statement. The move bolsters Leverkusen’s defensive options as they look to maintain their strong position in the Bundesliga while also preparing for the knockout rounds of European competition.
At Leverkusen, Hermoso will not be short of familiar faces. The Spanish defender will be joining a squad that already includes his compatriots Álex Grimaldo, a key figure in the team since his move from Benfica, and Aleix García, who arrived earlier this season. Additionally, he will be working under Spanish head coach Xabi Alonso, whose tactical vision and leadership have transformed Leverkusen into one of the most exciting teams in Europe. Alonso has been credited with instilling an aggressive yet disciplined playing style, making his side a legitimate contender for the Bundesliga title and a dark horse in European competition.
Hermoso’s move to Germany comes after a brief but eventful stint at Roma. The Spanish defender joined the Italian club last summer in what was his first experience playing outside Spain. During his time in Serie A, he made 13 appearances and scored one goal, showcasing his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. However, despite showing glimpses of his quality, Hermoso struggled to cement himself as an undisputed starter in Roma’s backline, prompting the club to consider loaning him out in search of more consistent playing time.
His return to a more competitive league like the Bundesliga represents an opportunity for him to reinvigorate his career. Leverkusen’s high-intensity, attacking philosophy under Alonso could suit Hermoso’s style well, especially given his ability to play out from the back and contribute to the team’s build-up play. Furthermore, with the club competing on multiple fronts, including the latter stages of European competitions, he is expected to play a crucial role in their defensive rotation.
Hermoso's career has seen him take various steps in Spanish football before his move abroad. Born in Madrid, he developed in Real Madrid’s prestigious youth academy, La Fábrica, but never made a senior appearance for the first team. Instead, he spent time on loan at Real Valladolid before making his breakthrough with Espanyol, where he established himself as one of La Liga’s most promising defenders. His impressive performances caught the attention of Atlético de Madrid, who signed him in 2019. Under Diego Simeone, he became a key part of Atlético’s defense and played a crucial role in their 2020-21 La Liga title-winning campaign. Known for his ball-playing ability and defensive solidity, he featured regularly in Atlético’s system, although his role fluctuated in the years that followed.
With his contract at Roma set to expire in 2025, this loan move to Bayer Leverkusen could serve as a decisive period in Hermoso’s career. If he impresses in Germany, Leverkusen may consider making the move permanent, particularly given their need for experienced defenders as they aim to build a squad capable of sustained success. On the other hand, a strong spell at the club could also reopen opportunities for him elsewhere in European football.
As Bayer Leverkusen continues to challenge Bayern Munich for Bundesliga supremacy, the addition of an experienced defender like Hermoso could prove vital in the latter stages of the season. With a packed fixture schedule ahead, including crucial league matches and European knockout rounds, his presence will provide Alonso with greater flexibility in squad rotation and defensive setups. His ability to play in multiple positions, contribute to build-up play, and offer leadership in crucial moments makes him an asset for the club’s ambitions.
For Hermoso, the move represents a fresh start in a competitive league where his qualities can shine. He will be hoping to make an immediate impact at Leverkusen and play a key role in their push for silverware. With the Bundesliga title race heating up and European competition reaching its critical stages, the Spanish defender now has the chance to prove himself on a grand stage once again.
