Donyell Malen believes Roma have provided him with the ideal environment to produce the best football of his career.
The Dutch forward has enjoyed an outstanding start to the season under Gian Piero Gasperini, establishing himself as one of the central figures in Roma’s attack.
In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, Malen discussed Gasperini’s honesty, his remarkable scoring form and the teammates who have impressed him since his arrival in the Italian capital.
Malen Praises Gasperini’s Management
Asked what makes Gasperini special, Malen pointed to the coach’s direct and honest relationship with his players.
“The way he manages the group,” Malen said. “You know that he will never lie to you about anything.”
The forward also revealed a surprising dressing-room story from Roma’s match against Parma, when Gasperini’s emotions led to an unusual celebration.
“Does he throw chairs around the dressing room? It happened after Parma. It was incredible—he was so happy that even a table went flying.”
Gasperini’s demanding methods have helped Roma make a strong start to the campaign, with the players responding to the coach’s intensity and clarity.
“I Am Becoming the Player I Dreamed of Being”
Malen admitted that he has never begun a season with such a prolific scoring run.
“Have I always scored this much? Never this much and never from the opening rounds,” he explained. “What has changed? I think a little bit of everything.
“I have played a lot and in many different places, but today I believe I am in the right place with the right people. The coach and my teammates give me so much confidence. All these things together are helping me become the player I dreamed of being.”
The forward was named Serie A Player of the Month following his brilliant opening performances, underlining his immediate importance to Gasperini’s project.
Malen Reflects on His Dream Roma Debut
Malen identified his first appearance for Roma as the defining moment of his experience so far.
“The most important moment of my adventure? The first match,” Malen said. “Starting strongly and immediately scoring a hat-trick was fundamental.
“As a team, we were solid and connected. I immediately had positive feelings. Moments like that give you the foundation to build and achieve something special.”
The Dutchman also explained that the scale of Roma and the passion surrounding the club helped him settle quickly.
“What impressed me most about Roma? The importance of the club, the supporters, the coach and my teammates,” he added. “They are all fundamental components that make the work easier and contribute to success.”
Svilar, Pisilli and Koné Impress Malen
Several Roma players have made a particularly strong impression on Malen during his opening months at Trigoria.
“Many players have surprised me,” he said. “Svilar, but also Pisilli, who is very young and immediately shows that he has great quality.
“Manu is fantastic, while I already knew others, such as Marten, from our time with the Netherlands.”
Malen’s comments underline the confidence and unity developing inside Roma’s dressing room. After producing the most prolific start of his career, the attacker now hopes to maintain his form as Gasperini’s side enter a demanding period across Serie A and the Champions League.
Source: Corriere dello Sport
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