Former PSV Eindhoven forward Donyell Malen has earned high praise from Italian coaching legend Fabio Capello, who believes the AS Roma attacker possesses the qualities to become a formidable centre-forward and has drawn comparisons with Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazário.

Malen has been in impressive form since joining Roma at the beginning of the year, making a significant contribution to the club’s push for Champions League qualification during the second half of last season.

His performances have continued to attract attention, with Capello particularly impressed by the Netherlands international’s movement, physical strength and instinct in front of goal.

Speaking to Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former England manager offered a glowing assessment of the Dutchman’s qualities.

“The Dutchman is currently unstoppable. He has everything: focus on the goal and power. He never stands still. Moreover, he is smart; he knows how to make optimal use of every ball,” Capello said.

The Italian also compared Malen’s instincts inside the penalty area with those of former Italy international Paolo Rossi, highlighting the Roma forward’s combination of intelligent movement and physical presence.

“In the penalty area, he reminds me of Paolo Rossi, but with a stronger physique,” Capello added.

Capello’s assessment went further, with the experienced coach identifying similarities between Malen and Ronaldo Nazário, who represented PSV between 1994 and 1996 before becoming one of the most celebrated forwards of his generation.

“Some of his movements bring to mind Ronaldo, who also had a great deal of power. And above all: Malen shoots from every position,” Capello said.

The comparison reflects the qualities that have made Malen such a dangerous attacking presence for Roma. His ability to find shooting opportunities from different positions, combined with his strength and movement, has helped him make an impact in Italian football.

Capello also credited Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini for helping Malen flourish in a central attacking role.

“Gasperini has done a very good job of making him a centre-forward. When he has the ball, he always sets the attackers in motion,” he concluded, as quoted by PSV Inside.

Malen’s growing influence was evident last Wednesday when he scored twice for Roma against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Despite the Dutchman’s brace helping Roma establish a 3-1 lead, the Spanish giants eventually recovered to claim a dramatic 4-3 victory.

The result denied Roma a memorable win, but Malen’s contribution further underlined his threat at the highest level.

There has also been a setback for the forward. He was sent off against Como 1907 in the latest round of Serie A fixtures and will consequently miss Roma’s meeting with Genoa FC.

Nevertheless, Capello remains firmly impressed by the Dutchman’s abilities. His assessment places Malen alongside some of football’s most recognisable attacking names, with the former PSV player continuing to make his mark in Rome.