Malen praises Roma's environment as he eyes first trophy

Netherlands forward Donyell Malen, who arrived at AS Roma in January, says the Italian capital feels “fantastic” as he chases his first World Cup goal and hopes to add trophies after scoring 14 league goals in a single group, the most prolific spell since his PSV days. Malen has already helped the Netherlands secure a place in the World Cup round of 32, where they will face Morocco. He is still searching for his first goal of the tournament. The striker explained that a key factor in leaving the Premier League for Italy in January was the promise of a central attacking role. He said, “My conversation with Gasperini influenced my decision,” referring to the club’s head coach.

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Malen praised the reception he received at AS Roma, describing the welcome, integration and relationships as “wonderful.” He added, “I’m more than convinced I made the right choice,” after settling quickly in the city. Roma’s recent qualification for the Champions League, achieved through a series of goals, was highlighted by Malen as a collective triumph. He remarked, “If we hadn’t all pulled together, we wouldn’t have achieved our goal,” underscoring the team’s unity. Malen noted that he arrived in Rome “full of enthusiasm and motivation,” and that the environment has supported his performance. He recorded 14 goals in a single group, the most prolific spell since his PSV days, and said he always tries to give his best. Looking ahead, Malen declared, “The future? We want to win something,” signalling ambition for trophies. He concluded that winning titles remains the primary objective for him and the club.