Donyell Malen’s Roma Renaissance: A Sign of Shifting Tactics in Dutch Football?
Donyell Malen’s recent impactful performances for AS Roma, following a loan move from Aston Villa, are turning heads – and prompting discussion about his potential role in the Netherlands national team. René van der Gijp, a prominent Dutch football analyst, believes Malen could be the ideal second striker to partner with Memphis Depay.
From Villa Disappointment to Roma Revelation
Malen’s move to Roma came after a period where he wasn’t consistently featuring for Aston Villa. The loan deal, with an obligation to buy, represents a fresh start for the 26-year-old. His immediate impact in Italy has been undeniable. In just four matches with Roma, he’s scored three goals, quickly becoming a key player for the Serie A side.
The January 19th game against Torino showcased Malen’s potential, with reports suggesting coaching staff were asking “Who on earth have we just signed?” after he scored twice. This rapid adaptation highlights a player finding his form in a new environment.
Van der Gijp’s Endorsement and the National Team Picture
René van der Gijp’s assessment carries weight in Dutch football circles. He emphasizes Malen’s ability to complement Depay, stating it’s “lekker [nice] to have him behind Memphis when he’s in solid form.” Although, he also acknowledges Malen’s inconsistency, noting the potential for a dip in performance.
The question remains whether national team coach Ronald Koeman will include Malen in his squad for upcoming international competitions. With the international stage approaching, Malen’s current form presents a compelling case for selection.
The Rise of the Dynamic Forward: A Tactical Trend?
Malen’s success at Roma, playing alongside Paulo Dybala, suggests a growing preference for dynamic forward pairings. The ability to interchange positions, create space, and offer multiple goal-scoring threats is becoming increasingly valuable in modern football. This tactical shift emphasizes versatility and adaptability in attacking lineups.
Malen’s ability to hold up the ball and draw defenders, as demonstrated in his play with Dybala, creates opportunities for teammates. This selfless play, combined with his goal-scoring ability, makes him a valuable asset.
The Loan System: A Pathway to Revitalization
Malen’s journey from Aston Villa to Roma highlights the effectiveness of the loan system in revitalizing players’ careers. A change of scenery, a different tactical approach, and increased playing time can unlock a player’s potential. This is particularly true for players who may be struggling to adapt to a new league or team.
The loan with an obligation to buy structure also provides financial security for both clubs, mitigating risk while allowing the player to prove his worth.
FAQ
Q: How many goals has Donyell Malen scored for Roma so far?
A: He has scored three goals in four matches for AS Roma.
Q: What does René van der Gijp reckon of Malen?
A: Van der Gijp believes Malen is an ideal second striker for the Netherlands national team, particularly when playing behind Memphis Depay.
Q: Is Malen’s move to Roma permanent?
A: The move is initially a loan with an obligation for Roma to buy him.
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