Donyell Malen has articulated his ambition to win the Scudetto with AS Roma, describing it as a 'dream' and expressing contentment with his life in Italy. The striker, who joined Roma in January, has made a significant impact, scoring 14 goals in 18 competitive matches.
Looking ahead, Malen hopes to improve weekly and score many goals, but emphasized that Roma's qualification for the Champions League after seven years was the team's greatest success last season. He stated that repeating such an achievement would be fantastic for both himself and the team.
Malen, who began the season with Aston Villa, watched his former teammates win the Europa League. He clarified that he is not jealous of their success, expressing happiness for them and noting that they sent him a winner's medal, which he considers a part of his own success.
"Rome is exceptional, there’s a great climate, the monuments are beautiful and the people are fantastic. My family and I are happy here, my rapport with the fans is splendid, so there’s absolutely no reason to think about leaving," Malen told Il Messaggero. He added that watching videos of the 2001 Scudetto celebrations at Circo Massimo makes him aspire to repeat such an experience.
Addressing comparisons between Serie A and the Premier League, Malen believes the gap is not significant when considering the top teams. He pointed to Inter Milan reaching the Champions League Final twice in recent years as evidence.
Malen also credited manager Gian Piero Gasperini for his improved form, stating that Gasperini shows faith, is clear in his instructions, understands his qualities, and puts him in a position to perform at his best.
The striker also revealed that he attempted to persuade Dutch compatriot Crysencio Summerville to join Roma. "I had spoken to Crys, unfortunately it didn’t go well, but I don’t feel it is right to comment on the choices made by a friend. I can only wish him the best," Malen said, referring to Summerville's decision to move to Al-Hilal instead.
Regarding another Dutch prospect, Feyenoord's Givairo Read, Malen expressed familiarity and optimism. "I didn’t talk to him, but I do know him, he’s very young and making an impact. He’s the kind of player who would do well here," he commented.
