Donyell Malen has spoken about leaving Aston Villa and one of the reasons why he was happy to join AS Roma
Donyell Malen has joined AS Roma from Aston Villa(Image: Getty Images)
Donyell Malen has confirmed one of the reasons he accepted a move away from Aston Villa, joining AS Roma on loan with an obligation to buy.
The Dutch forward, who only joined Villa last year, wants to play more regularly as a striker, rather than out wide in a supporting role.
With Unai Emery unwilling to provide Malen with the opportunities he wants in the Premier League – given that Ollie Watkins fits the Spaniard’s system more effectively – the move suited all parties.
Emery rates Malen’s talent highly, which is why he signed him 12 months ago, but Malen was becoming frustrated with his lack of chances to lead the line for Villa consistently.
In his first interview with Roma, Malen confirmed that he accepted the move to the Serie A club on the promise that he would play regularly as a number nine.
“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 said.
“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 centre. 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.”
Speaking about moving to the Italian capital, Malen said: “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.
“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!”
Follow our Facebook page!Get more news and AVFC analysis here
The latest Villa headlines sent straight to your phone
Join our Aston Villa WhatsApp group and get the latest breaking news, interviews and opinion sent straight to your phone, plus matchday team news and live updates of all the action. Just click on this link and select ‘Join Community’ to get started. The only proviso is that you must have WhatsApp on your phone to participate. It’s a free service. No one will be able to see your personal information and you will only receive messages from our Villa writers.
We will not spam your WhatsApp feed with constant messages, but you will receive updates from us daily with the latest Villa news. If you later decide to opt out, just go to the name at the top of your screen and click ‘Exit Group’. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. Click here to read our Privacy Notice