Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa Admits Newcastle Move Was a Mistake as He Joins AS Roma
New AS Roma defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa opened up to the Italian press on Thursday, candidly reflecting on his recent stint in the English Premier League.
During his unveiling in Rome, the French international admitted that his move to Newcastle United had not worked out as hoped. “It didn’t go well in the Premier League,” Yanga-Mbiwa told reporters. “The style of play in England is very different. It’s more about long balls, physical duels, and a lot of strength. Here in Italy, football is played more on the ground, with greater emphasis on technique. That will suit me better.”
The 26-year-old defender, who will don the number 2 shirt for Roma this season, also highlighted the role of head coach Rudi Garcia in persuading him to make the switch to Serie A. “Rudi Garcia’s presence was very important in my decision,” he explained.
Yanga-Mbiwa’s move to Roma represents a fresh start following a challenging period at Newcastle, where adaptation to the Premier League’s intense physical style proved difficult. The transfer offers him the opportunity to showcase his abilities in a league renowned for tactical and technical football.
