Donyell Malen leads Europe with 18 goals as Roma striker targets Manchester United
Donyell Malen is Europe’s top scorer with 18 goals in 2026. The Roma striker returns to England to face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
Donyell Malen has emerged as the most prolific striker in Europe’s major leagues for 2026, scoring 18 goals from open play. This tally is two more than nearest rival Lamine Yamal and four more than any other player in the top divisions. The Netherlands international returns to England on Tuesday night to face Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Since signing from Aston Villa, Malen has undergone a remarkable transformation under Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini. He has scored eight goals in eight Serie A games this season, following a loan spell last year where he netted 14 times in 18 appearances. His form includes a hat-trick against Fiorentina and recent goals against Cagliari and Udinese.
Gasperini has deployed the 27-year-old as a centre-forward, a role that maximises his deadly finishing near the penalty area. The coach noted: “He wanted to be a centre-forward, and I always thought that is where he was stronger too because he is deadly near the penalty area. Malen’s versatility allows him to exploit one-on-one situations and run in behind defences with prodigious speed.
Malen’s return to the Premier League comes with high stakes, as Manchester United’s defensive record suggests they may struggle to contain him. The Roma manager has likened Malen to the late Gianluca Vialli, citing his “similar ability to shake off his marker and get in behind” defences. With no one in Serie A having more touches in the opposition box, Malen poses a significant threat to the hosts.
Eli Nathan
Eli Nathan covers Wales news, politics, community stories, and sports for The National Wales (thenational.wales).
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