New Hellas Verona winger Rolando Aarons reveals why he chose this Serie A adventure after Newcastle United and his “history” with Fabio Pecchia.
The Under-20 England international arrived on loan in the January transfer window and has already made two Serie A appearances.
“Towards the end of the January transfer market I had a few options,” said Aarons in a Press conference.
New Hellas Verona winger Rolando Aarons reveals why he chose this Serie A adventure after Newcastle United and his “history” with Fabio Pecchia.
The Under-20 England international arrived on loan in the January transfer window and has already made two Serie A appearances.
“Towards the end of the January transfer market I had a few options,” said Aarons in a Press conference.
“For me, the intriguing thing was being able to play in Serie A and obviously test myself in a top foreign league. It’s a new environment for me, but I watch the league and I really like it.”
Verona Coach Fabio Pecchia was Rafa Benitez’s assistant manager at Napoli, Real Madrid and then Newcastle before branching out on his own.
“I had history with the manager as well, knowing him at Newcastle, so the move made sense compared to the other choices I had and I’m happy with my choice.
“The first time I had contact with Pecchia was in August in a friendly against Newcastle, when he asked if I’d be interested. At the time, it didn’t make sense, because I still had a possibility of playing for Newcastle, so when this opportunity came around in January, it was already on my mind. It made it easier for me to make a decision.
“When Fabio was at Newcastle, I got to know him pretty well. I know what he likes and doesn’t like, his characteristics, so I didn’t need Rafa to tell me anything. I already knew.”
Aarons was named as one of the most promising young players by Don Balon, but never quite flourished.
“I still believe that I can become a top player. Obviously, I’ve had obstacles with injuries and not playing as many games, so it has staggered my progress, but I feel this is the perfect platform to re-establish career. So as well as helping Verona, I can help my own career as well.
“I want to clarify something, I’ve never hurt my Achilles tendon. I don’t know where that rumour came from. I’m very healthy and very ready.
“I am doing what I love, I am out there playing football and the scenario doesn’t change that. I’ve been in a situation of fighting against relegation at Newcastle, so I’m prepared.
“My best role is just to do my job. Wherever the manager puts me, I must play to my best ability. It’s about Verona and not Rolando Aarons.
“I’m not happy with my performances as yet, I’m very critical of myself. I don’t think I performed to the best of my abilities, but I do understand that it takes some time to adapt to a new league and environment.
“My Italian is not great, but I’ve downloaded an app on my phone to learn the language! I learned this phrase: Sono pronto. I am ready. I’ve been in this position, I like to forget about the league table, pressure, press and everything else when I play. I focus on winning.
“Maybe I can add quality in the final third. I know the team has struggled to score goals and create chances, so my personal goal is to contribute more to that side of the team.”
Hellas Verona fans are notoriously fiery and passionate at the Stadio Bentegodi.
“The first impressions are they are very similar to the Newcastle fans, they are very proud of their team. I’m obviously very happy to be a player for fans like this. I’m ready.”