His words: “Rensch told me to come here immediately. The fans? I know they’re crazy about football and I like that very much because I’m like that too.”

Anass Salah-Eddine has given his first interview to Roma’s official channels. From the negotiations through to the desire to play at the Olimpico Stadium. The Dutchman shared his story, also revealing the reason behind his choice of jersey number. Here are his words:

“What are your first impressions?”
“It’s truly a great club, I’m happy to be here. Everyone has welcomed me warmly and I feel good.” It was a swift negotiation. “Indeed yes, the negotiation was concluded in just a few days. “The club, and especially the Friedkin family, have placed a lot of trust in me and wanted me here. I too wanted to come here, so everything was already clear,”

Rensch arrived in Rome a few days before you did. Did you talk to him before signing? “Yes, I spoke to him beforehand and he spoke very highly of the club. “He told me, ‘If you have the opportunity, you must come.'”

You chose number 34 like your friend Kluivert. Is this a special number for you?” “Yes, it is. I believe everyone is aware of the reason I chose it. “I wore it also in my previous club and it’s for Abdelhak Nouri.”

“You’re a defender who really enjoys attacking. “What are your main strengths?” “I am a defender who, as you mentioned, likes to attack. I am fast, good at dribbling and also know how to cut in from the outside.” “How important is it for a young footballer to work with an experienced coach like Ranieri? “I think I couldn’t ask for anything better. He is a very experienced coach, I am young and very eager to learn, and I think he is the best person from whom to learn something.” “How much do you think you can improve as a defender in Serie A?” “Immensely, because I believe that it’s the league where the best defense is played. I’m happy to be still young and to already be here. “I have many years to improve and I truly want to do so.”

“Do you know the love and passion of Roma’s fans?”

“Yes, I have heard about it. “I know they are crazy about football, and I really like this because I am the same way. I am very passionate, so I believe that I am very similar to them”. Can you imagine the first match at the Olympic Stadium? “I’ve heard about it from some of my teammates. I think about it and I can’t wait to play in this stadium.” “What do you think of the city of Rome? Are you excited to live here? “Yes, I come from Amsterdam, which is a big city, but it is cold. I think that Rome is one of the best cities in the world, so I am looking forward to exploring it.”

Your first message to the fans? “I am thrilled to be here, I will give my all for the club. I intend to reach great heights with Roma. “Go Roma, come on Roma!”