Donyell Malen, a dynamic footballer known for his versatility, has joined Aston Villa from Borussia Dortmund, bringing with him a wealth of experience and potential. With over 300 career appearances and an impressive record of 39 goals for BVB, Malen is poised to make a significant impact at Villa Park. However, despite his capabilities, he faces the challenge of not yet being registered with the club due to squad limitations, as Aston Villa can only add three new players to their roster.
Malen's career trajectory is marked by adaptability and growth, having excelled in various positions such as winger and striker. His journey began at Arsenal, where at just 16 years old, he trained with the first team. Reflecting on those formative years, Malen recalls, "I was very young. I was only 16 when I came and trained with the first team. I was this skinny [kid]." This early exposure laid the foundation for his development into the formidable player he is today.
During his tenure at PSV Eindhoven, Malen showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting 27 goals in all competitions in his final season. His time at Borussia Dortmund further honed his skills, preparing him for the challenges of the Premier League. Despite often coming off the bench and operating in wider areas, he managed to rank among the top 10 players in the Bundesliga for goals per 90 minutes last season.
"Last season, he ranked among the top 10 players in the Bundesliga for goals per 90 minutes."
At Aston Villa, Malen is eager to prove himself and contribute significantly to the team's success. He believes that Unai Emery, with whom he has previously worked, is the right manager to elevate his game. "I think I am just looking forward to being here, improving and playing in the Premier League and showing myself here. That is a big goal for me. I just want to play and enjoy my football. What I have to do with that is score goals and be important for the team," Malen expressed.
"I think I am just looking forward to being here, improving and playing in the Premier League and showing myself here. That is a big goal for me. I just want to play and enjoy my football. What I have to do with that is score goals and be important for the team." – Donyell Malen
Malen's ambition extends beyond domestic competitions; he has unfinished business in the Champions League. Having experienced Borussia Dortmund's final defeat to Real Madrid in June, he is determined to return to Europe's premier competition and make his mark. His memorable experience watching Aston Villa progress to the last 16 against Celtic only fueled his desire further.
"Seven-and-a-half years after walking away from the Premier League to pursue progression elsewhere, we will soon find out whether he is ready to reignite it on his return."
Despite a controversial VAR call denying him an equalizer against Wolves, Malen remains undeterred. He acknowledges that success in the Premier League requires more than promise—it demands delivery. "He knows it is not about promise now, it is about delivering."
"He knows it is not about promise now, it is about delivering."
Malen's versatility allows him to adapt seamlessly to various roles on the pitch. He states confidently, "I have played all the positions by now at this stage, so for me it does not really matter. I just want to be close to the goal." His direct approach towards goal and ability to create space for midfielders are among his key strengths.
"I have played all the positions by now at this stage, so for me it does not really matter. I just want to be close to the goal." – Donyell Malen
"I think I am very direct towards the goal, very direct against my opponents. I am running in behind, trying to create space for midfielders. I think that is my strength." – Donyell Malen
Malen's commitment to improvement is evident as he works closely with Emery to refine his positioning and address weaknesses in his game. "About positioning," he explains. "Where my strengths are and where I have to improve on weaknesses. A lot of these things we have already spoken about."
"About positioning," he explains. "Where my strengths are and where I have to improve on weaknesses. A lot of these things we have already spoken about." – Donyell Malen
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