'It was always my aim to join Roma': Cristante's first interview

On Friday the midfielder became the Giallorossi's third signing of the summer, as he joined on an initial loan deal from Serie A side Atalanta.

And, in his first official interview as a Roma player, the Italy international revealed how easy negotiations had been - with both parties eager to reach an agreement.

Read everything Cristante had to say...

You have just arrived at Roma: your first thoughts?

“They are only good – starting with the reception I got at the airport. The city does not need to introduce itself, and neither does the club; I saw straight away that the club has a clear and professional approach during the negotiations.”

The club really wanted you…

“Yes, they made it clear how much they wanted me. There was the same desire on my part, and in so we were able to find an agreement at the beginning of the transfer window. So I am very satisfied. It was my aim to come here and I have been able to sort it out very quickly.”

You are only 23 yet you have already played around Italy and in Europe: what have these experiences given you?

“I think that every experience brings with it something positive that allows you to improve: both the positive ones and the tougher moments. As a young player I have already had the fortune to play outside Italy, and that experience really gave me a lot.”

How do you judge your time with Atalanta?

“It was a great experience, a brilliant year or so. I need to say thank you for this to everyone, from the coaches to the club and the city itself. I felt settled immediately and was able to show my best form almost straight away. So I can only say thank you to everyone for that.”

What do you think you can give to Roma?

“I think I can give everything there is to give, and repay the faith that the club has shown in me. This was not a decision made lightly, just plucked from the air – there was a logic and calm thought behind my decision. I am sure that I will be able to do my best and give everything I have.”

What does it mean to have the chance to play in the Champions League again?

“The Champions League is every player’s target. From when I first started playing as boy, the dream was always to play in that competition and it still is now. I am pleased to have the chance to play in it again. Roma showed this season that they are right at the highest level, and so next season we want to repeat that.”

Is there also excitement at the possibility of tasting great European nights at the Olimpico?

“Definitely. Everyone knows that the city has a special passion for football and certainly the idea and the target is to deliver nights like that.”

Have you had the chance to speak with Monchi and Eusebio Di Francesco?

“I spoke with both of them: they welcomed me to the club and explained why they wanted me on board. I could only say thank you to them for giving me this chance.”

Do you want to send a message to the Roma fans?

“I just want to say thank you, because I have already got a taste of their passion for the club – through the welcome at the airport and the messages I’ve got on social. From my perspective, I can just say I will give everything I have – in every game and every training session.”