Donyell Malen says Roma move has unlocked his best form

Donyell Malen believes he has found the right environment at AS Roma after enjoying a prolific start to life in the Italian capital. The former PSV forward told VI that he has not scored as regularly at any of his previous clubs, having also represented Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund.

Malen credits his form to the confidence shown by Roma’s coach and players. “I’m now in the right place,” he told VI, explaining that the combination of trust and his role within the side is allowing him to become the player he had long wanted to be.

The striker also said leaving Birmingham for Rome was his own idea. Malen wanted consistent playing time and the opportunity to hold an important position in a team every weekend, something he did not feel was available to him at Villa. He consequently views the switch as the best decision for his career.

His partnership with Paulo Dybala has quickly attracted attention, with supporters blending their names into nicknames such as “Dymalen”. Malen said their chemistry was immediate. Roma have also made a strong collective start: they lead Serie A after five matches, taking 13 points and dropping points only in a 2-2 draw with Inter. Their next assignment is Sunday’s away game against Como, who sit three points behind them.