Former Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman has praised the Giallorossi’s start to the season under Gian Piero Gasperini.
Speaking to Il Tempo, the Dutchman discussed Gasperini’s work, Donyell Malen’s outstanding impact and the qualities Marten de Roon can bring to the squad.
Strootman was also asked whether Roma can compete for the Serie A title, although he believes it remains too early to make that assessment.
Strootman impressed by Gasperini’s Roma
Strootman believes Roma have delivered several encouraging performances during the opening weeks of the campaign.
“Gasperini is working very well,” he said. “Roma have made a very important start to the season, and I hope they can continue like this.”
“They have played some excellent matches and produced some very good football. The important thing now is to continue along this path.”
Roma remain unbeaten under Gasperini, with the team demonstrating both attacking quality and defensive strength across Serie A and the Champions League.
Strootman explains Malen’s Roma success
Malen has emerged as one of Roma’s leading performers after scoring five goals during the opening two league matches.
Strootman has known the forward for several years and believes Roma’s confidence in him has helped unlock his quality.
“We did not play together very much, but I have known him for a long time, and he is an extremely strong striker,” Strootman explained.
“He performed well in Germany and England, even though he was not always a starter. At Roma, however, he has received a lot of confidence, particularly from the coach, and he is doing very well.”
“You can see the difference with the national team as well. He has great quality and spectacular speed.”
Strootman believes the environment in the Italian capital is ideally suited to the forward.
“I think Roma are the right team for him. He feels important, and he is demonstrating it.”
“I am not completely surprised by his performances, although probably nobody expected an impact like this. I hope he can continue this way.”
Malen has also expressed his desire to lead Roma following his prolific start.
De Roon can strengthen Roma dressing room
Strootman also highlighted the experience, tactical knowledge and leadership that De Roon can provide.
“He is a player with enormous experience,” Strootman said. “He knows Italian football extremely well, and above all, he knows Gasperini’s game.”
“Marten is a genuine dressing-room leader. He always gives everything for the team and can also help the younger players.”
“He does not need to feel more important than everyone else or be in the spotlight. Everything he does in training and during matches is for the group.”
“That is a very important quality for a team that wants to compete near the top of the table.”
De Roon joined Roma after leaving Atalanta and has already explained how Gasperini influenced his decision.
Can Roma challenge for the Scudetto?
When asked whether Roma can realistically compete for the Serie A title, Strootman preferred to postpone his prediction.
“Hopefully. Let us see where Roma are in March.”
“In the meantime, I will continue playing with my daughters, and perhaps we can speak again then,” he joked.
Roma’s performances have created growing optimism, but Strootman believes the club’s true position in the title race will only become clear during the decisive months of the season.
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