Wesley divides Roma fans on debut | OneFootball

Wesley, recently transferred from Flamengo to Roma for €25 million, experienced his first start for the Italian side in a pre-season friendly against Lens on Saturday, according to Lance. Featuring for 71 minutes, the Brazilian right-back delivered a performance that prompted mixed reactions from Roma supporters, reflecting both optimism and skepticism about his adaptation to European football.

During the 2-0 victory at Stade Félix Bollaert—secured by goals from Gianluca Mancini and Matías Soulé—Wesley collected 51 touches, completed 30 of 32 passes, and made three interceptions. He also won four of nine duels, was fouled three times, and committed a single foul. Despite these solid statistical contributions, fan opinions varied widely, some hailing his integration and link-up play while others pointed to the need for further growth.

Some fans on social media praised his showing as "an excellent debut as a starter," highlighting especially his connection with Soulé on the flank. One declared, "Wesley is probably the best right-back in the world in terms of compatibility with Soulé." Others expressed caution, saying, "Wesley will need time," and "I still have big doubts about Wesley," referencing concerns about his adaptation to both the demands of Serie A and the tactical nuances under new coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

This marked Wesley’s second appearance for Roma—he had previously come on after half-time against Cannes in another pre-season runout. His transfer from Flamengo, completed at the end of July, represented a significant investment for the Italian club, one that has generated attention both in Rome and back in Brazil.

Supporters recognized the broader team’s improvements, with some pointing out Roma’s "preventive movements, overlapping runs, high pressing, and defensive rotations" under Gasperini, suggesting that these systems could benefit a developing player like Wesley but also present challenges as he finds his rhythm.

For Flamengo, Wesley’s progress in Italy will be closely monitored. His move stands as one of the more high-profile transfers from the club in recent windows, and his on-field growth could reflect the strengths and areas for improvement in the Flamengo talent pipeline.

While the early indicators from pre-season are promising, the consensus around Wesley is that patience will be necessary as he adjusts to a new level of competition and expectation at Roma, with fans and analysts alike waiting to see how he evolves through the coming season. (Source: Lance)

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