Aston Villa exit seemed inevitable for the Serie A star following his being seconded in the team during his spell there.
Playing in the Premier League has always been the dream for most footballers in the world. Yet, when you only become an understudy, despite the potentials, it is surely disappointing. That was apparently what exactly the Dutch star, Donyell Malen, felt during his stint in Villa Park.
He was never the first choice in Aston Villa. It was understandable since Ollie Watkins was the main frontman. Despite his versatility in playing out wide or Malen was not playing regularly too. He was more of the squad player and the expected super sub, which he was. Nevertheless, he preferred a more important role. The former Dortmund man shared his reason during the interview with Corrieredellosport via Sportwitness.
“It was me. I wanted to play, to be part of a team where I could step onto the pitch every weekend and be a player. At that stage, I didn’t feel like I was, but I think I made the best choice.”
Malen joined Aston Villa in January 2025. He was hoping he could be playing regularly for The Lions after leaving Borussia Dortmund. Unfortunately, such was far from reality.
He was mainly used as a substitute under Unai Emery and not even included in the Champions League squad in the 2024/25 season. Malen was only regarded as Ollie Watkins‘ deputy or utilized for rotation, despite his important contribution in the first half of the 2025/26 season, like a winning brace against Burnley in the Premier League, and versus Young Boys in Europa League, or a winning goal while beating Nottingham Forest in his previous campaign. Overall, he made 46 appearances, scoring 10 and providing two assists.
Once he plied his trade to Giallorossi, Malen felt comfortable instantly. He has been given important role in Roma’s set up, playing regularly and netting his goals.
“I think everything has changed compared to my previous experiences. I’ve played a lot and everywhere, but today I think I’m in the right place with the right people. My coach and teammates give me so much confidence. All these things combined are helping me become what I dreamed of.”
Despite moving on loan initially, Gian Gasperini did not have any doubts to sign him permanently. Last season, he registered 15 goals and three assists in all competitions. He scored important goals like against Juventus to hold them in a 3-3 tie, a hattrick against Pisa for their 3-1 win and a brace to help his team win 3-2. His goals contributed to Roma’s return to Champions League this season.
So far, the Dutch international has bagged 21 goals and provided four assists in only 27 games. Malen has turned into a prolific goalscorer he never was before.
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