Donyell Malen, Roma striker, commented on his red card received during the Champions League match against Como, holding a press conference on the eve of the match against Real Madrid. The Dutchman expressed frustration at the red card, but said he didn't want to hurt anyone. “It was a difficult time, but I didn't want to cause anyone any harm,” he said, adding that the evening would still be meaningful for everyone present.
During the same conference, Malen revealed that he apologized to his teammates in the locker room area. "I apologized because it had been a long time since I received a red card. It was frustrating to see the match from the locker room point of view," he explained, promising to do everything possible to regain the confidence of his teammates. The player also stressed that his frustration was not motivated by a desire to provoke, but rather by a desire to maintain the unity of the group.
The sports judge confirmed Malen's one-match ban, in line with UEFA rules for expulsions. The decision was received with understanding by the team, which has already started planning the temporary replacement of the midfielder. Coach Gasperini expressed support for the player, calling him "special" and thanking Malen for his willingness to remedy the mistake.
Roma, who are now preparing for the match with Real Madrid, will have to manage Malen's absence in the next match. The club has already indicated that the midfielder will continue to work with the group, but will be excluded from the pitch for the following matchday. Malen's absence could affect the team's offensive balance, but the coach underlined the need to maintain the group's cohesion.
With the one-match ban, Malen will have to return to action for the next few weeks, but Roma are focusing on maintaining their position in Serie A and preparing for the Champions League. The team, which has already faced several challenges in the league, aims to consolidate its form and make the most of the opportunities offered by European competition.