Corriere dello Sport (Guerrieri): The countdown has started. Rick Karsdorp has started to warm the engines. The Dutchman has a huge desire to return to the pitch with the Giallorossi to show just how valuable he is and to make it clear that the €14 million (plus €5 million in bonuses) spent to bring him to Italy was a good investment, both for the present and for the future. Is it possible that one of the best youngsters in his role could suddenly disappear? Last year, he made 41 appearances, scored a goal and had seven assists with Feyenoord. And now? Recovering from a torn ACL suffered during his debut as a starter against Crotone. Not a good start as the Dutchman found himself  in complete darkness as he seemed to enter a tunnel without light as he described his debut as a starter, which ended in injury: “A dream turned into a nightmare”. And the worst part is he seemed to be very promising in his first Serie A start. But no, fate had decided that this was not the right time.
GOODBYE, CRUTCHES
But now, his return is not so far away. Rick has started to smile again and is now walking without crutches. His blond hair fluttered while in the stands at the Olimpico on Saturday night against Cagliari. It was a different Karsdorp: smiling, positive. He gave selfies and autographs to the fans who at halftime seemed to assault him with enthusiasm. He got up from his seat and flashed a thumbs up to fans. He is definitely better. Karsdorp may have seen the light at the end of the tunnel. Rick has found a way out and now it’s just a matter of time.
THE DESIRE
Karsdorp wants to come back for the final stretch run of matches, whether it be for the Scudetto or the Champions League. He would be a fundamental recovery for Di Francesco, who is alternating between Florenzi and Bruno Peres in that role, everything would be easier with Karsdorp available. He is determined, he wants to go back to running on the flank and demonstrate to everyone that he can be the extra man in the final part of the season and pick-up  from where he had left off two months ago. Is he back? Not yet, but he is returning…and he can not wait.
