Malen gives first Roma interview: “I came for the passion of the fans and Gasperini.” | OneFootball

Donyell Malen is a new Roma player.

The Dutch striker arrived from Aston Villa on loan with an option to buy, which will become mandatory upon meeting certain conditions.

After the club’s official announcement, the 1999-born striker gave his first official interview to the club’s channels.

Regarding his arrival in Rome and his new fans, he began by saying: “I feel good and I’m very happy to be here. It’s been a long few days, but I’m thrilled. “In football, there’s nothing more important than passion. I play with passion and hope to build a bond with the fans and achieve something important together.

“The fans’ passion, the owners’ ambition, and the club’s goals are what drew me here. This is a great club, and I’m thrilled.”

Malen then spoke about Gian Piero Gasperini, his preferred position, and his feelings about Serie A: “Gasperini is very important to this club. He’s done well in the past with other clubs, and his teams have always played good football. The forwards have also always performed well, so I can’t wait to work with him. I prefer to play in the center. I think I can be more dangerous as a pure striker, create chances for the team, and score goals. So I like that position. I know this league very well; I’ve watched many matches this year and in the past. Serie A has always interested me, and I’m very happy to be here and play in this league.”

Malen talks about his friendship with Kluivert and his choice of number 14: “I’ve known him very well, since I was 9 years old. When the first rumors circulated, he wrote to me telling me that Roma is an extraordinary club and that I can really do something special here. Yes, we talked a lot. Number 14? It was the best number available. I’ve played with number 14 in the past and always felt good.”

It will be Malen’s first time in Rome: “We’re all thrilled to be here; I’ve personally never been here. I’ve always heard it’s a beautiful city, one of the most beautiful in Europe. I can’t wait to explore it and discover what it has to offer. I think the Colosseum is extraordinary; I’ve seen lots of photos and I think it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit. I’ve eaten carbonara a few times, but I don’t think it was like the one in Rome, so I’ll try the local carbonara.” Finally, a message and a promise to his new fans: “I’m happy to be here and I’ll fight for this club. I’ll try to give my all, score goals and provide assists. I’m very excited. Forza Roma!”