Dutch Forward Dismisses Legendary Comparisons After Stunning Roma Start
Aston Villa forward Donyell Malen has responded with characteristic humility to comparisons with footballing greats Marco van Basten and Gianluca Vialli, following his explosive start to life at AS Roma. The Dutch international has made an immediate impact in Serie A, prompting discussions about his potential to follow in the footsteps of some of Italy's most celebrated forwards.
Immediate Impact in the Italian Capital
Malen's loan move to Roma has proven immediately fruitful, with the forward scoring a decisive brace in Monday night's 2-0 victory over Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico. This performance follows his goal-scoring debut, bringing his tally to three goals in just four appearances since arriving from Villa Park. His clinical finishing and dynamic movement have quickly made him a fan favourite in Rome.
When questioned by Sky Sport Italia about whether he saw himself as following in the footsteps of AC Milan legend Marco van Basten, Malen responded with characteristic modesty. "Van Basten was a very special player, no!" he declared, before adding: "I'm very happy, a good win, I'm happy with the goals, nice assist, everybody played well, so it was a good day."
Managerial Praise and Historical Comparisons
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini expressed little surprise at Malen's rapid adaptation to Italian football, stating his conviction that the Dutchman is "a top player" who requires the right service to flourish. "He's a difficult player to contain with such a vast repertoire," Gasperini observed, highlighting Malen's technical versatility.
The comparisons to footballing royalty didn't stop with van Basten. Gasperini drew further parallels between Malen's style and that of Italian great Gianluca Vialli, noting their shared ability to "shake off his marker and get in behind." While acknowledging van Basten's different physical attributes, the manager emphasised that Malen possesses "similar movements" to the former Juventus and Chelsea striker, suggesting the young forward shares the same intelligent off-the-ball running that made Vialli so effective.
Future Prospects and Permanent Possibility
Roma's acquisition includes an option to make Malen's loan deal permanent at the season's conclusion, a clause that looks increasingly attractive with each performance. His seamless transition to Serie A football has sparked discussions about his long-term future, with his current form suggesting he could become a cornerstone of Roma's attacking plans.
The forward's combination of technical ability, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing has created genuine excitement in the Italian capital. While Malen himself downplays the comparisons to legends, his early performances suggest he possesses the qualities to carve out his own significant legacy in Italian football.
