Ebrima Darboe wants to play under Jose Mourinho at Roma despite interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, representatives speaking on behalf of the midfielder have told Calciomercato.
Talk about making a good first impression.
After an impressive run of form for the club’s youth sides, 19-year-old Darboe was handed his senior Serie A debut in the recent 5-0 thrashing of Crotone.
And he hasn’t looked back.
The teenager has started every league game since, quickly making himself an indispensable presence at the heart of the Roma engine room.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Giallorossi director Tiago Pinto plans to turn down any offers from Arsenal and Tottenham despite their interest.
Fortunately for Roma, Darboe has no intention of turning his back on the Stadio Olimpico as one of the most decorated managers in modern football prepares to step into the breach.
“If he stays in Rome, he stays to play with Mourinho,” his representatives explain.
“His contract expires in 2023, relations with Roma are excellent and we will meet shortly. I think we will find an agreement to adapt and extend the contract. The boy’s desire is to stay. I think the will is mutual.
“There are many calls – but for now we haven’t fallen into temptation. Never say never but (a summer sale) seems premature to me. We want to continue with Roma.
“I can say great clubs are looking for him – from England to Spain and France – but also important Serie A clubs who would be happy if he played with them.
“Darboe is an exceptional guy, really good. Everyone in Rome knows him. He’s polite. I say he’s a golden boy.”
Just five years ago, Darboe was fleeing famine and war in Gambia in search of a better life in Europe. It’s fair to say he’s found it.
The teenager’s supreme composure on and off the pitch paints the picture of a man far older than his 19 years. Then again, having seen and experienced more in two decades than some do in a lifetime, Darboe has had to grow up fast.
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