It depends. If it is a top team that can win big trophies without him then I don’t think he is a good fit. However, if it is an average to above average side – but not nearly a great one with little or no chance of winning a big trophy, then Roman is the best choice. Why do I say this?

I think Roman is the type of player that needs to be needed. His introverted personality will not allow him to be a vocal or inspirational leader. Quite the contrary. His often sullen mood can drag on a team. However, if his team totally depends on him and it is fully known that they can not succeed without him – I believe it inspires him. On the other hand, put him on an already solid team with proven stars that can win without him and he will disappear in to the shadows.

His style of play – slow, plodding, controlling the ball, having everything run through him, making incredible geometrical passes others could not even imagine – will lift an ordinary team but can slow down a very good or great team. Put a couple of ordinary players around him (like at Villareal or currently at Boca) and he can lift their play and make them (almost) great. However, surround him with great talent (like on the national team) and he can seem to be slowing everyone else down. While there have been some flashes of greatness with Messi, Tevez and others…more often than not he leaves us frustrated and cursing at the game.

I hope it is clear that I am a HUGE fan of Roman. His style of play is beautiful to watch. He is the last great “enganche”. I don’t think we’ll see a player like him anytime in the near future. When Roman is at his best – he is every bit as good as Zidane (even better!).

However, as an even HUGER Argentine fan…it pains me to say that I think the national team would be better off without him. I think Messi, Tevez, Aguero, Milito, Higuain and others would do better with Aimar playing the playmaker role.

I would love to get some comments on this post. Thanks.