Smalling has been curious about the Italian League

Rome - Chris Smalling will start a new chapter in Italy after joining AS Roma. The England defender has long wanted to feel scratched in the Italian league.

Smalling has lent this summer Manchester United to Rome in the transfer market. He will spend the 2019/2020 season in the Italian capital.

This was Smalling's first time working outside the UK. He admitted that he really wanted to try to feel the competition in Italy.

"I think Serie A has always been my target to try one day because, as a defender, if you have the chance to taste Serie A, you want to do it," Smalling said at a press conference during his presentation to Roma players, as indicated on the club's official website .

"I think I played a lot in the Premier League and now can bring the quality that I have learned to Italy and that is something I can't wait to see.

Smalling was loaned to Rome without a permanent option. As a lender at the age of 29, Smalling wanted to respond to the trust Rome showed him.

"I am not a young player who has to prove myself, but I like new challenges, I have an extraordinary moment in Manchester, but an opportunity to experience a new league and be with a new club like Rome ..." said Smalling.

"I don't like to live with regrets and this is a great opportunity, in Manchester, the expectations are high, but in Rome too, it's not easy, but also a big challenge."

"It was motivating and I now have the opportunity to prove that the club is not wrong, believe me," he said.

Loading...

Subscribe to receive free email updates: