Roma’s new number 6 – A look at Kevin Strootman (Video)

They may have lost one of their rising stars to Ligue 1 champions PSG, and their keeper to west London club Fulham, but the forthcoming season is looking up for AS Roma after the acquisition of Dutch midfield enforcer Kevin Strootman. The 23-year-old, already hailed as the reincarnation of the retiring Mark van Bommel, is a solid addition to the capital side which already boasts the talents of the loyal Daniele De Rossi and growing fan favourite Michael Bradley. And with ageless genius Francesco Totti taking care of the creative side of things, aided by the mercurial Erik Lamela (and when he’s bothered, troubled yet gifted striker Pablo Osvaldo), this could just be the Giallorossi’s year. 

The Dutch Under-21 captain will become the first Roma player in a decade to don the number 6 jersey that was retired in honour of its last wearer. After 13 years of faithful service, Brazilian 1994 World Cup winner Aldair hang his boots in heart-warming ceremony at the Stadio Olimpico. Since then the 6 shirt was withheld, but now it will drape the young shoulders of the Oranje midfielder, exerting a weight of expectation on them. But from his powerful, composed displays for former club PSV and on international duty, there’s no doubt that the Stadio Olimpico terraces will open its arms to the new 6. Here is a glimpse of the man in action.