Malen back in action, De Roon hopes for a starting place at Roma

Donyell Malen gets a place in the AS Roma squad again on Sunday, when Serie A resumes, reports the Italian press. At the same time, veteran Marten de Roon can secure a starting spot against Como thanks to the knee injury of captain Bryan Cristante.

Malen had withdrawn from the Netherlands national team just before the international break, after which national coach Xavi initially expressed concerns about the severity of the injury. Later the national coach stated that the 27‑year‑old top scorer is fully fit.

Italian media reported that he trained with the Roma group on Thursday and will be available on Sunday. Thus the press confirms the expectation that Malen can be in action on Sunday.

De Roon on the brink of a starting spot

For De Roon, 35, Cristante's absence means a chance for his first start since the move from Atalanta. The midfielder is dealing with a knee injury, allowing De Roon to take the spot.

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He has trained with Roma throughout the international break and so far has played three times as a substitute. With Cristante on the bench, De Roon is expected to start against Como.

After the match against Como, Serie A‑leading Roma faces a Champions League duel against Feyenoord, followed by a crucial confrontation with Real Madrid. In the final league duel before the international break, Roma drew 2‑2 with Inter.

The contrast between Malen's swift return and De Roon's long‑awaited start highlights how injuries can shape the composition of the team, while Roma prepares for a series of challenging matches.