Roma attacker Carles Pérez was interviewed by Spanish journalist David De Las Heras and discussed his January exit from Barcelona and his move to Roma. Here’s what the Spaniard had to say:
Why did you decide to sign for Roma?
I had several offers. From Germany, Spain and England. A player who’s ready to transfer chooses the place where he feels most confident. Fonseca called and showed me total trust. I like the city and Roma is a huge club. It‘s a spectacular city — the fans are incredible and passionate. I am very happy to be here.
What’s the contractual situation with Roma?
The move became permanent once I played a match for Roma. It was essentially like them having already bought me.
You scored in your first game as a starter in the Europa League.
The truth is, I’m very lucky when it comes to goals. I also scored in La Liga during my first game as a starter.
I was only able to play for a month or so (before the season was suspended), but I adapted well to the team’s style of play, my teammates, and also to the playing style here in Italy, which is different than in Spain.
You’re joined by a fellow Spaniard in the team: Gonzalo Villar.
I already knew him because we met playing for the Spanish Under-21 team. We messaged each other and discussed going to Roma together. I feel very comfortable with the team — it’s a team with a great history, a Champions League team. There’s also a strong dressing room…I like it here.
Have you met Totti?
No, I haven’t seen him. He hasn’t come around our training center since I’ve been here.
And now Barcelona.
It was my dream. I worked to get there ever since I started playing football when I was five. My farewell from there was difficult — I didn’t handle it too well. I had the chance to leave before, but I always remained, which hurt. I wasn’t too happy with the behavior they had with me.
And Setién?
He explained his plans to me and how he viewed the team. On one hand, I understood him but I still didn’t receive an explanation, but it’s OK. I want to be a professional footballer and at 22 years-old, I don’t want to waste time.
I laid out all the options and I chose Roma, an extraordinary club. I chose Roma because of the climate, which is similar to Barcelona and the sun is always out, and also because of the language — in Germany and England it would’ve been more difficult to understand everyone. There’s also the history of Roma.
Since Dembelé’s injury — they said they regret selling you.
I’m not thinking about what’s happening at Barcelona now. I’m a Roma player and my present and future are here. I want to say that I’m nobody’s spare wheel.
I’m not going to pretend I’m an automatic starter — we’re talking about two huge teams in Roma and Barca. However, (the exit from Barcelona) took some time to accept, but now I’m happy. I’m hope we start playing again soon and I hope we can finish in a Champions League place and advance in the Europa League.
I’m not even thinking about returning to Spain except for our Europa League tie against Sevilla.
