Neil El Ainawi has been poses with Rome director Frederick Masala after signing a contract with Jarorossy (asroma.com).
Neil El Einaui has officially joined Rome and revealed that he chose number 8 for Idol Andres Iniesta.
Rome confirmed El Ainawi’s permanent signature from the lens. The 24-year-old is Rome’s first summer signature.
The former U23 Moroccan International has released its first interview with the club’s official website.
“I’ve had a great welcome since I arrived at the airport and I’m happy about that,” he said.
“I’ve noticed the passion of this city and I want to do my best to the fans because this is the right city for it. They’ll provide us with great support. If it’s a welcome we received at the airport, I can’t wait to see what they do in the stadium.”
El Ainawi explains the Roman team number
The 24-year-old midfielder explained why he chose No. 8 in his first season at Studio Olimpico.
“I grew up close to Barcelona and naturally supported this team. I’ve always been a fan of Andres Iniesta. I’ve always dreamed of wearing these numbers,” he said.
“I spoke to Masala in the first stage and would like to thank the owners and directors for handling the situation well and driving my move here.
“I’m a modern midfielder with stamina and can play in both phases and cover the pitch with strength.”
El Ainawi also looked to his goals, earning the net nine times and providing four assists in 49 League One appearances.
“Before I played as a middle midfielder, I was playing further up the pitch and I could feel the goal,” he explained.
“We have a system that can cover both phases.”
What about his Roman coach Giampierogas Perini, appointed a few weeks ago?
“I followed him when I was in France. He proved great in Atalanta. I found a great coach at a great club,” El Ainawi said.
“He is a coach who likes to play offensive football, so I can’t wait to start and learn from him, and I’ve joined an incredible club.
“I’m looking forward to meeting other players. There’s a dressing room with lots of top players. I learn something from them all and try to improve myself.
“I’m excited to start training with my team. Now my teammates can take this club to a place worthy of being there. It’s great to win a trophy here.”
El Ainawi explains why he chose soccer in tennis
El Ainawi’s father, Younes, is a former tennis star who reached the world’s 14th highest single ranking in 2003.
“He never forced me to do anything. That’s a natural decision I made as a child. As a child, there was football for me. There was nothing else,” replied the new Roman midfielder.
“So my dad allowed my brother and I to choose what we like most, and I naturally chose soccer. But I never forget to play tennis and sometimes play with my dad.”
Roma has paid 25 million euros, including add-ons, to protect player signatures from the lens.
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