Donyell Malen explains Aston Villa exit after sealing €25m Roma move
Roma forward Donyell Malen has confirmed that he chose to leave Aston Villa for a bigger role in Italy, saying he no longer felt central to the team before his switch to the Stadio Olimpico.
The Netherlands international first joined Roma on loan in January, then completed a €25 million permanent move after making an immediate impression. He has carried that impact into the new Serie A season, scoring six times in his first five league appearances.
“It was my decision,” Malen said of the exit. “I wanted to play every week and feel important within the team. At that point I did not feel that way, so I believe I made the right choice.”
He added that Roma have given him the environment he wanted, with the coach and squad placing their trust in him as he pursues the level he had always targeted.
Gasperini influence and Dybala connection
Gian Piero Gasperini was a major reason behind Malen’s move to Rome. The striker praised the manager’s direct approach, while admitting the demands on the training pitch can be severe.
“You always know he will be honest with you,” Malen said. “But sometimes his sessions are very tough.”
Malen also recalled Gasperini’s reaction after Roma’s decisive win at Parma last season, when Champions League qualification was secured. The coach was so delighted after the final whistle that he sent a table flying.
On the pitch, Malen has quickly developed an understanding with Paulo Dybala. Roma supporters have labelled the partnership “Dymalen” online after the pair clicked early in the campaign.
Malen’s hat-trick against Fiorentina in the opening match set the tone for his start. He said the early performance gave the squad belief that it could build something significant, while Dybala had immediately become an easy teammate to play alongside.
- Malen joined Roma on loan in January.
- Roma activated a €25 million permanent transfer after his early impact.
- He opened the current season with a hat-trick against Fiorentina.
- He now has six Serie A goals from five matches.
Who is affected and what comes next
Malen missed the Netherlands’ latest international break through a minor injury, a setback he described as frustrating. His focus is now on returning fully fit and maintaining his place as Roma’s leading scorer.
He also highlighted the quality around him in the Roma squad, singling out young midfielder Niccolo Pisilli and Manu Kone for praise. Malen said he already knew several players from his time with the Netherlands setup, including Marten de Roon.
Roma will now look to have Malen available after the international window as they resume their Serie A schedule and prepare for Champions League football.
