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Manchester United were linked with a Roma star ahead of the summer transfer window(Image: Emanuele Pennacchio/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Roma striker Donyell Malen will look to extend Manchester United’s miserable winless run as he gears up to face the Red Devils in the Champions League. The Dutch forward has been prolific since joining the Italian club from Aston Villa at the turn of the year.
Malen has thrived since stepping out of his role as Ollie Watkins’ backup at Villa Park. The 27-year-old demonstrated his clinical finishing during an initial loan spell last term, scoring 15 goals in 20 appearances for his new side.
Roma opted to trigger their buy option in the summer, snapping up the Netherlands international for around £21million after he helped fire Gian Piero Gasperini’s side to Champions League qualification. However, before his permanent switch was made official, United were linked with the striker ahead of the summer window.
Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport reported that United were among several Premier League clubs interested in Malen, whose valuation was claimed to already be double what Roma were due to pay Villa. While any such move failed to materialise, the Dutchman could pile more pressure on United manager Michael Carrick by scoring at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
Reflecting on his move from Villa to Roma, Malen told Corriere dello Sport last month: “It was my decision. 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. Today I feel I’m in the right place with the right people. 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.”
Donyell Malen has scored 26 goals in 32 games for Roma(Image: Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
The forward has continued his fine form in front of goal this season, notching 11 goals in 12 games, and will seek to add to his tally against United. After starting the season with a Serie A hat-trick against Fiorentina, Malen has tipped Roma to achieve success.
“As a team, you know, we were strong and connected, and I immediately had a very good feeling,” Malen said. “We can build on moments like these and do something special.”
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It could prove to be an ominous mix for United boss Carrick, whose side are without a win in nine games. Pressure began to pile on the manager following a dismal 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League and the 45-year-old will be eager to avoid another slip-up against Italian opposition.
“You never know what is going to happen in the future, but that doesn't change the way I feel,” Carrick said ahead of facing Roma. “I can't wait for the game tomorrow. You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had, but I can't wait for it.”
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Manchester United host AS Roma in the Champions League on November 3. Fans can watch the game for free with an Amazon Prime subscription or 30-day trial.