Malen says criticism doesn't concern him ahead of World Cup
Donyell Malen has spoken about his approach to handling criticism in football, ahead of his first World Cup with the Netherlands. The Roma attacker will face Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia in the tournament. In an interview with Men's Health, Malen reflected on the nature of professional football, saying: "In football, if you score you're a hero. If you don't touch the ball or miss a goal, you immediately come under fire from criticism. I talk a lot with my wife and the people closest to me: they are the only opinions that can really hurt me. Everything else I let slide off me. And then, when things don't go well, often I'm the first to notice." Malen explained that expectations from supporters reflect their appreciation. He emphasized that he trusts the counsel of his inner circle rather than external judgment, and maintains self-awareness about his own performances. On the World Cup, Malen expressed the significance of the tournament: "It's something you dream about as a kid. Wearing this shirt is a source of pride." The attacker is preparing for what represents a major milestone in his international career with the Dutch national team.
