Ronaldo Vieira bemoans lack of playing time after Leeds exit, gets Sampdoria reprieve

Ronaldo Vieira of Sampdoria and Mattia Valoti of Spal fight for the ball during the Coppa Italia match between UC Sampdoria and Spal at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 4, 2018 in Genoa,...

Ronaldo Vieira was sold by Leeds United to Sampdoria.

STADIO GIUSEPPE MEAZZA, MILANO, ITALY - 2019

Leeds United selling Ronaldo Vieira to Sampdoria was one of the summer's most surprising transfers.

It has also been one of the least successful. Perhaps this weekend could be a turning point.

Tuttomercatoweb reported Vieira made his feelings clear on his lack of game time this week.

He is reported to have told Sampdoria: "I'm not a child. I'm ready to play."

 

The 20-year-old had made only two Serie A starts this season.

This weekend he was handed his third, replacing suspended midfielder Albin Ekdal.

He justified his recall, performing strongly in a 2-1 away win.

Ronaldo Vieira of Sampdoria and Mattia Valoti of Spal fight for the ball during the Coppa Italia match between UC Sampdoria and Spal at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 4, 2018 in Genoa,...

Going up against Mirco Antenucci's SPAL, Vieira created one chance, won five tackles, and his 74 touches were the joint highest of any player on the pitch.

It was the sort of performance which backed up his words.

Vieira made 71 total appearances for Leeds in two full seasons, so his dismay at a lack of game time this campaign is justified.

The Guardian reported Sampdoria paid £6.2 million to sign him, and their lack of faith has been surprising.

This weekend could mark a turning point.

STADIO GIUSEPPE MEAZZA, MILANO, ITALY - 2019

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