Gasperini is surprised by Malen's 21 goals in 26 games for Roma

Coach Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed amazement at the outstanding form of striker Donyell Malen at AS Roma, who since his transfer in January from Aston Villa has already delivered 21 goals and four assists in 26 official matches.

Unexpected market opportunity changes plans

At the Italian football festival Festival dello Sport in Trento, Gasperini declared: “Sometimes an unexpected opportunity on the market can completely change your plans.” He added that there were a few names in the race until they heard that Aston Villa wanted to sell Donyell.

Malen's role as striker confirmed

“Donyell was eager to become a striker again,” said the coach, and emphasized that he had long believed that the Dutch international would be better suited in the area around the penalty area. Gasperini admitted that he had not expected the stunning statistics.

He recounted with a smile a conversation with Malen: “I told him that Gonzalo Higuaín at Napoli once scored 36 goals in a single season. I only added that I would already be happy if he scored thirty.”

Half a month ago Gasperini praised the numbers: “If you look at Donyell’s figures, they are abnormal. Crazy. It is special what this player has already done for us, and that in an enormously consistent way.”

The coach concluded: “It is clear that we acquired an important player with him, but he is even better than expected.”

Donyell Malen, currently absent from the Dutch national team due to injury, therefore remains a crucial factor for Roma’s attack.