Malen: ‘I Didn’t Feel Important at Aston Villa, Gasperini Will Never Lie’

FolioPitch.com – 09 October 2026 | In a candid interview with Corriere dello Sport, Roma forward Donyell Malen opened up about his departure from Aston Villa, his thriving partnership with Paulo Dybala, and the profound impact of manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The Dutch striker, who has taken Serie A by storm, made headlines with the statement: Malen I didn t feel important at Aston Villa Gasperini will never lie, encapsulating his journey from the Premier League to the Italian capital.

Malen, who joined Roma on loan from Aston Villa in January before making the move permanent for €25 million at the end of the 2025-26 season, has been in sensational form. With six goals in five games this season, he currently tops the Serie A scoring charts. His 21 goals in 26 matches for Roma underline his importance to the Giallorossi, a stark contrast to his time in England.

Reflecting on his decision to leave Villa Park, Malen was unequivocal. “It was my decision,” he said. “I wanted to play and be part of a team where I could take the field every weekend and play an important role. At that stage, I didn’t feel important, so I think I made the best choice.” The phrase Malen I didn t feel important at Aston Villa Gasperini will never lie resonates throughout his narrative, highlighting the motivation behind his move.

Since arriving at the Stadio Olimpico, Malen has found a new lease on life. “Today I feel I’m in the right place with the right people,” he continued. “The coach and my teammates show a lot of confidence in me, and together, all of this is helping me become the player I dreamed of being.”

Central to his resurgence is Gasperini, the Italian tactician known for his demanding yet honest approach. Malen revealed that Gasperini played a crucial role in his transfer, speaking to him last January to explain his tactical vision. “You know he’ll never lie to you about anything,” Malen said. “Sometimes Gasperini’s training sessions are really hard,” he added with a smile, acknowledging the intensity that has driven his improvement.

The forward also shared an anecdote that illustrates Gasperini’s passion. After a crucial away victory against Parma in the race for Champions League qualification last season, the coach was so overjoyed that he sent a table flying in celebration. Such moments have forged a strong bond between player and manager, further emphasizing why Malen I didn t feel important at Aston Villa Gasperini will never lie has become a recurring theme in his interviews.

Malen’s scintillating start to the new campaign included a hat-trick against Fiorentina on the opening day. “Getting off to such a good start by scoring a hat-trick was crucial,” he admitted. “As a team, you know, we were strong and connected, and I immediately had a very good feeling. We can build on moments like these and do something special.”

His attacking partnership with Paulo Dybala has been one of the most lethal in Serie A. The duo, affectionately dubbed “Dymalen” by fans online, have struck an instant rapport. “It’s funny online. Paulo and I clicked immediately,” Malen said. Their telepathic understanding on the pitch has defenders scrambling and fans dreaming of silverware.

Beyond Dybala, Malen has been impressed by several teammates. “A lot of players. Pisilli is very young, and I could immediately see his quality,” he noted. “Manu [Kone] is fantastic. I already knew some of them from the Netherlands. Marten [De Roon], for example.” This appreciation for his colleagues reflects the unity that Gasperini has fostered within the squad.

Malen’s only regret this season was missing the latest international break due to a minor injury. “I was injured, and I was sorry not to play for the national team,” he said. However, his focus remains on Roma, where he is determined to achieve greatness.

In conclusion, Donyell Malen’s story is one of redemption and self-belief. From feeling undervalued at Aston Villa to becoming a cornerstone of Roma’s attack, his journey underscores the importance of finding the right environment. Under Gasperini’s honest guidance, Malen has flourished, and his declaration that Malen I didn t feel important at Aston Villa Gasperini will never lie serves as a testament to his transformative move. As Roma push for domestic and European glory, Malen’s goals and partnership with Dybala will be pivotal. For the Dutchman, the future looks bright in the Eternal City.