Dutch football figures back Malen ahead of Japan match despite recent errors

Christian Pulisic delivered an impressive display for the United States in their World Cup opener against Paraguay, providing an assist in the first half before departing with a calf injury. Despite playing only 45 minutes, the 26-year-old American winger made an immediate impact in a comfortable victory. Olivier Giroud, the former Milan striker, praised Pulisic's performance, saying: "Christian reminded me of Eden Hazard, for the way he faced opponents and managed to dribble them with ease. I was not surprised by his excellent performance against Paraguay, because I believe he has the credentials to take the United States national team to a higher level." Roma are closely monitoring Pulisic's situation at AC Milan, where his contract renewal remains uncertain amid the club's ongoing instability. The winger has emerged as a potential target for the Giallorossi, particularly if a deal for Mason Greenwood does not materialize. Giroud further underscored Pulisic's importance, adding: "I have always thought that the United States are fortunate to have him, because he has technique and intelligence. At Milan we called him by his nickname, 'Captain America,' because even when he was not wearing the captain's armband of the United States, he was their leading player, the one with the highest profile. No one expects the United States to win this World Cup, but if they want to reach the knockout stage, he will be fundamental." Pulisic's future remains in limbo as Milan navigate significant institutional turmoil.

Twenty years after Italy's 2006 World Cup triumph, Francesco Totti has reflected on the historic achievement. Totti was one of the key figures in that campaign and has commented that the magnitude of the victory makes it impossible to describe in a single word. The 2026 World Cup has now begun, marking two decades since Italy's last World Cup success. Totti's reflections underscore the enduring significance of Roma's legendary former captain's role in one of Italian football's greatest moments.

Fabio Capello, who managed AS Roma to their third Scudetto in 2001, has given an interview discussing his experience during that championship-winning season. Capello was the architect of Roma's 2001 Serie A title, one of only three league championships in the club's history. The former coach reflected on the emotions surrounding that achievement, noting that missing the celebration had a lasting impact on him. His comments offer insight into the significance of that era for the Giallorossi.

Roma are searching for a deputy striker to support Donyell Malen as head coach Gian Piero Gasperini aims to build an attacking-focused squad. Gasperini's tactical philosophy emphasizes constant offensive play, which is reflected in the club's transfer strategy. Several forwards are reportedly under consideration for the role, including Scamacca and Zirkzee among other options. The move aligns with the new coach's desire to strengthen Roma's attacking options ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Donyell Malen is preparing for his World Cup debut this evening as the Netherlands face Japan in Group F at Arlington, Texas. The Roma forward is expected to start and will encounter Suzuki, the Japanese goalkeeper he faced recently when Roma defeated Parma 3–2 on 10 May. In that match, Malen scored twice against Suzuki—first with a precise strike from distance, then converting a penalty in the 101st minute. Malen arrives at the tournament seeking to rediscover his scoring form after failing to find the net in two pre-World Cup friendlies against Algeria and Uzbekistan. Regaining his goal-scoring touch is crucial to secure his place in the starting lineup and avoid losing opportunities to fellow forward Depay. The article notes that other Roma players have already featured in World Cup matches: El Aynaoui's Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil, and Çelik played 81 minutes in Turkey's loss to Australia. Malen's previous success against Suzuki provides a psychological edge, and scoring in tonight's match would represent a significant confidence boost as he aims to establish himself with the Oranje during the tournament and build on the strong impression he has already made at Roma.

Roma commentators have discussed the future of striker Artem Dovbyk amid speculation about his role under head coach Gasperini. According to discussion points, if suitable offers do not materialize, Gasperini could consider Dovbyk as a backup option to Donyell Malen. The focus reflects uncertainty around Dovbyk's position in the squad and whether the club will pursue alternatives. One voice emphasized that the key consideration is the coach's conviction in his squad decisions, suggesting Gasperini's tactical preferences will ultimately determine how the striker is deployed this season.