Malen among Serie A strikers left empty-handed at the World Cup

Donyell Malen, Roma's forward, failed to score across three group-stage matches at the World Cup with the Netherlands, a significant drop from his impressive form with the club. The player was shifted to the right wing during the tournament as fellow striker Brobbey scored three goals. Former Inter manager Frank De Boer analysed Malen's difficulties, tracing the root of his struggles to a friendly match against Algeria at the De Kuip stadium. De Boer explained that Malen did not play poorly in the group stage, including against Tunisia, where he remained active and unlucky in the final minutes. However, the Dutch legend believes a critical turning point came earlier. De Boer stated: "Everything started with the wasted opportunity against Algeria at the De Kuip. It seems to torment him a bit, it seems he's thinking too much. It would have been nice if he'd scored two goals now. But he didn't play badly." The analysis suggests Malen's lack of goals stems from a mental block rather than tactical or physical issues. De Boer implied that the forward's confidence may have been shaken by the missed chances in the Algeria friendly, affecting his performance throughout the tournament. His return to Roma and prospects for regaining form remain to be seen.

AS Roma players competing at the World Cup have faced mixed fortunes in the group stage. Some, including Donyell Malen, have progressed to the knockout rounds and continue their tournament campaign. Others have been eliminated early and must return to club duties. The article provides an early assessment of how Roma's internationals have performed during the initial phase of the competition. Their results and individual displays will influence preparation for Roma's return to domestic and European action.

Roma faces a significant gap in their left-wing position, a deficiency that weighs heavily on the squad's performance. The absence of a reliable left-sided winger is creating tactical and operational challenges for the Giallorossi. This shortfall has drawn comparisons to previous periods when Roma struggled with similar positional weaknesses. The lack of depth or quality in this area is constraining the team's attacking options and overall flexibility in their formation, leaving head coach Gian Piero Gasperini with limited offensive alternatives on the flanks.

Mason Greenwood has decided to join AS Roma following three weeks of negotiations that began with a video call between the English forward and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini on June 6. Gasperini's father Andrew, who also serves as his agent, participated in the initial contact, which was arranged through a former Manchester United teammate. Gasperini explained to Greenwood his tactical plans for Roma, detailing how the forward would operate either on the right flank or as a trequartista depending on the formation (3-4-2-1 or 3-4-1-2), while emphasizing the club's ambition and his importance to the project. Roma's leadership is now tasked with finalizing the deal with Marseille. The Friedkin Group and club ownership are preparing an offer of approximately 40 million euros plus performance-based add-ons. Negotiations are expected to advance after June 30, with direct talks between Friedkin and Marseille owner Frank McCourt. This approach mirrors Gasperini's success in January when he personally convinced Donyell Malen to join Roma. However, without a formal agreement in place, Greenwood's father continues to listen to interest from other clubs, including Fenerbahce, as he maximizes his position in the negotiations.

Donyell Malen, Roma's forward, failed to score across three group-stage matches at the World Cup with the Netherlands, a significant drop from his impressive form with the club. The player was shifted to the right wing during the tournament as fellow striker Brobbey scored three goals. Former Inter manager Frank De Boer analysed Malen's difficulties, tracing the root of his struggles to a friendly match against Algeria at the De Kuip stadium. De Boer explained that Malen did not play poorly in the group stage, including against Tunisia, where he remained active and unlucky in the final minutes. However, the Dutch legend believes a critical turning point came earlier. De Boer stated: "Everything started with the wasted opportunity against Algeria at the De Kuip. It seems to torment him a bit, it seems he's thinking too much. It would have been nice if he'd scored two goals now. But he didn't play badly." The analysis suggests Malen's lack of goals stems from a mental block rather than tactical or physical issues. De Boer implied that the forward's confidence may have been shaken by the missed chances in the Algeria friendly, affecting his performance throughout the tournament. His return to Roma and prospects for regaining form remain to be seen.

Roman radio stations aired commentary from journalists and former players on Roma's transfer plans and squad prospects. A central theme was whether the club would sell key players during the summer window. Piero Torri from Radio Manà Manà stated: "There is the possibility that Roma does not sell anyone," while also commenting on midfielder Koné's recent performance for France. Mateo De Santis raised concerns about contract negotiations, noting that Pellegrini's representatives have not been in contact with Roma despite the player and his assistant wanting to renew. "Their contract expires in three days," De Santis warned, highlighting the urgency of discussions. He also indicated that winger Soulé does not want to move to Saudi Arabia and that movement around midfielder Koné could still occur, questioning the value of the Settlement Agreement if it is not respected. Legend Roberto Pruzzo expressed optimism about Malen's return, saying the winger "cannot wait to come back to Trigoria" and suggesting he will arrive more motivated. Pruzzo noted that Malen's role became clearer during his Roma spell compared to his use with the Netherlands. Fellow commentator Nando Orsi suggested Malen may be managing physical fatigue after a demanding season and cautioned against viewing the situation as a crisis, observing that his current campaign has established him as a key player.