Donyell Malen explains Aston Villa exit as Roma striker insists he made the right decision

Donyell Malen has revealed that he personally pushed to leave Aston Villa, insisting his decision to join AS Roma has been vindicated by his impressive goalscoring form in Italy.

The 27-year-old Netherlands international has scored six goals in five Serie A appearances this season, building on the 14 goals he registered during the second half of the previous campaign.

Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Malen explained that his departure from Villa Park was motivated by a desire for regular first-team football.

Asked who was responsible for his move away from Aston Villa, Malen made it clear that the decision was his own.

“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.”

The Dutch forward believes his move to Roma has provided the consistency and confidence he was missing in England.

“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.”

Malen has developed an effective attacking partnership with Paulo Dybala, becoming an important figure in Gian Piero Gasperini's system.

Malen finished as Serie A's second-highest goalscorer during the second half of last season, scoring 14 times after arriving from Villa.

His outstanding start to the current campaign suggests that momentum has continued.

The former Aston Villa attacker also discussed the tactical differences between English and Italian football.

“In the Premier League, there’s a different philosophy; you never find defensive blocks like the Italians.”

Malen explained that the Italian game demands a different approach, particularly when high temperatures make constant end-to-end football difficult.

Under Gasperini, he has found a system that allows him to use his movement, pace and finishing ability effectively.

Malen will look to continue his goalscoring form when Roma host Real Madrid in the Champions League next week. The fixture offers another opportunity to demonstrate his progress since leaving Aston Villa.