Croatian coach Ivan Juric, who manages Roma, once again explained his choice not to play German defender Mats Hummels, who still hasn’t seen a minute of action this season. He framed it as purely a “tactical decision” and said it’s got nothing to do with “age or experience.”

“I go to training and watch who performs better. I don’t look at experience or age—I pick the one who gives me the most confidence,” he said firmly at a press conference.

Hummels started in the Champions League final back in June, but since then, he hasn’t played at all. He signed with Roma in September as a free agent, and shortly after, the club let go of Daniele De Rossi. Under Juric, Hummels’s status hasn’t changed one bit.

Last Thursday in the Europa League match against Dynamo Kyiv, fans expected him to make his debut, but even after warming up through the whole second half, he didn’t get the call to enter the field.

Juric explained it was a tactical choice, preferring to go with Ivorian defender Evan Ndicka in that spot, and added that Hummels is in good physical shape. Ahead of Saturday’s game against Fiorentina, Juric clarified his reasoning again.

“It’s a technical decision; I don’t know what else to say. I think Ndicka should play there—he’s got the potential to become an absolutely top player in that role. He’s been proving it, and tomorrow he’ll have a tough test with Moise Kean. I’ve said it before, it’s pretty straightforward,” he added.

After their Europa League clash with Dynamo Kyiv, Roma is set to face Fiorentina on Sunday, Torino on Thursday, Hellas Verona the following Sunday, and then back to Europe for Royale Union the next Thursday.

It’s a packed schedule, especially the games against ‘Fiore’ and Torino—Juric’s former team—that could finally open up some minutes for Hummels, as the coach hinted after their win over Dynamo. “Hummels’s time will come, and he’ll be a big help for us. Right now, if he’s not playing, it’s on me, not him,” he said.