Marten de Roon will speak at today's press conference at 18:20 Italian time from the Old Trafford press room, alongside head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, on the eve of Manchester United v Roma. The Dutch midfielder is due to preview the Champions League League Phase fourth-matchday clash, which takes place at Old Trafford tomorrow evening against the side managed by Michael Carrick. Giallorossi.net will carry his remarks live.
De Roon is expected to address Roma's current form, the club's European ambitions and the challenge of playing at one of Europe's most prestigious stadiums. Roma are in their first Champions League campaign of the 2026-27 season, and the Old Trafford fixture comes as the club looks to build on recent performances.
Asked how he is settling in, and whether Atalanta gave up on him too soon, De Roon said: "I'm doing well. Since I arrived I needed to find rhythm and physical condition, and we sorted that out during the break. The staff and the group have welcomed me very warmly, I knew I could still contribute and I'm happy with how it's going."
On whether Roma can follow the path Atalanta took, he replied: "I hope it's shorter, otherwise I won't be playing any more (laughs). At Atalanta we had a fantastic journey, it seemed like all that mattered was winning trophies. Roma are playing well, and a first Champions League year makes you play matches of a high level. We want to give continuity to our performances, like in a magical stadium such as tomorrow's."
Asked whether Roma have the personality to dominate everywhere, as Atalanta often did, he said: "Against Real we were not mature enough, but we are growing. The way we approach teams and play brings entertainment, we always try to score and not shut ourselves in. It's important, though, that we are aware as a team that we must defend better at certain moments. But we are growing."
On winning back the fans, De Roon said: "I'm on the right track, performances are always what counts. But it made me happy to be applauded when I came off against Cagliari. Facts always show what you're worth."
He was also asked about his time at Middlesbrough, when he faced United. "I don't remember that game very well. It was one of the strongest Manchesters of all time, great respect for them, in a fantastic stadium. They are a strong team but we want to get a great result."