Gasperini backs Donyell Malen to challenge Serie A scoring record

Gian Piero Gasperini believes Donyell Malen has the ability to threaten the Serie A scoring record after continuing his prolific form for Roma. Malen scored 14 goals in 18 league appearances last season and has already added another five.

The benchmark remains Gonzalo Higuaín’s 36-goal campaign for Napoli in 2015/16. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, in comments carried by Voetbal International, Gasperini said he would not be surprised if Malen surpassed that total. He highlighted the forward’s first touch and ability to create shooting opportunities quickly, explaining that moving those actions closer to goal has made him particularly dangerous.

Gasperini nevertheless wants Malen to remain relentless throughout matches. He said the attacker must retain his hunger even after scoring twice and pointed to a moment against Lecce when he felt Malen played too casually. The message was that mistakes are acceptable, but the manner in which they are made still matters.

Roma initially signed Malen on loan from Aston Villa. The Italian club subsequently announced that it would activate a €25 million purchase option, while the forward is set to be contracted in Rome until 2030. That decision followed a productive first season and underlines Roma’s longer-term commitment to the attacker.