Atalanta midfielder Marten De Roon has revealed that manager Gian Piero Gasperini consulted him prior to the club’s move for Borussia Dortmund forward Donyell Malen, according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport. The conversation took place during a recent episode of the Gazzetta’s podcast, “La Tripletta,” where De Roon was a guest. Gasperini reportedly sought De Roon’s opinion on Malen’s suitability for the Atalanta squad.
De Roon and Gasperini share a strong rapport, a relationship highlighted by the podcast discussion. The midfielder has been a key figure in Atalanta’s midfield since joining from Middlesbrough in 2015, becoming known for his combative style and tactical awareness. He has consistently featured in Gasperini’s plans, playing a vital role in the club’s consistent qualification for European competitions.
The details of the conversation between Gasperini and De Roon were not fully disclosed, but the revelation suggests the manager values the player’s insight on potential signings. Malen ultimately joined Atalanta during the summer transfer window, becoming a significant addition to their attacking options. The Netherlands international previously played for PSV Eindhoven, where he established himself as a prolific goalscorer, before moving to Dortmund in 2021.
Atalanta finished sixth in Serie A last season, securing a place in the Europa League. The club has a reputation for developing young talent and playing an attractive, attacking style of football under Gasperini. The addition of Malen is expected to further enhance their attacking capabilities and contribute to their ambitions of challenging for a Champions League spot. De Roon’s input into the recruitment process underscores the collaborative approach taken by the club in building a competitive squad.
This insight into the club’s transfer strategy highlights Gasperini’s trust in his existing players and their understanding of the tactical requirements. It suggests a player-led element to Atalanta’s recruitment, potentially offering a unique advantage in identifying players who will integrate seamlessly into the team’s system. The success of Malen’s integration will be closely monitored, potentially influencing future transfer decisions at the club.
