Paolo di Canio has hit out at commenters comparing Donyell Malen to Gianluca Vialli as he shines after leaving Aston Villa.
La Lazio Siamo Noi cover comments from the former striker today. He is far from impressed with the recent praise Roma have lavished on Malen.
The Dutchman joined the Italian side on loan from Aston Villa in the January transfer window.
That agreement includes an option to make the move permanent if the player meets certain performance and qualification requirements this season.
Malen thrives after Aston Villa
Malen has certainly made that likely. He has made a significant impact under Gian Piero Gasperini since his arrival, becoming a central figure in the Giallorossi attack and scoring five goals in five games.
That’s led to some impressive praise in Italy, which Sport Witness has covered. For instance, on the 10th, there were comments likening him to Gianluca Vialli.
Even yesterday his relationship with Gasperini and Roma was likened to a great marriage. There has been something of a pushback on that, though.
For instance, Antonio Cassano was keen to point out that Serie A is “five steps below” the Premier League. The suggestion there being an obvious one, Malen should find it easy to thrive in Rome.
Di Canio unimpressed
Di Canio isn’t going quite that far, but he is less than impressed by the comparisons to Vialli. He was close friends with the Italian, sharing a relationship over three decades.
They played together at Juventus, while Vialli tried to sign him as Chelsea manager. Di Canio then publicly defended his friend, calling the Blues’ decision to sack him “incredible”.
He now feels the comparisons with Malen disrespect his legacy as he shines away from Aston Villa.
“He’s 27 years old, and no one’s ever paid attention to him (Malen),” he said.
“Yet we commented on him in the cup competitions with Dortmund, where he was little more than a reserve, a co-starter, okay?
“At Aston Villa, he was rightly a reserve for Rogers and especially Watkins, who are stronger. He arrives here, scores five goals in five games, and who are we going to mention? Vialli? My big brother, a kiss to heaven, I’m sorry they mentioned you.”