Santon and Zaniolo determined to make big impression in capital

Santon and Zaniolo both joined the club from Inter Milan, with Santon adding experience, versatility and quality to coach Eusebio Di Francesco’s ranks and Zaniolo arriving as one of the most highly-regarded young players in Italian football.

“My feelings are all very positive,” Santon said. “It is the start of a new adventure and I cannot wait to get started and share everyone what I can do.

“[Sporting director] Monchi immediately made a big impression on me. We spoke on the phone two days before I arrived in Rome. We talked for a while and we found and agreement to bring me here. I am incredibly motivated at the prospect.

“I came here because I want to win something with this club. I hope that will happen this season, or in one of the next ones.”

Zaniolo, 18, believes the transfer will give him a great opportunity to impress his new coach and make his first steps at the highest level of the game.

“It is an amazing feeling, I’m proud to get the opportunity to represent this club,” the attacking midfielder said. “Now I have to demonstrate out on the pitch exactly what I can do.

“Coach [Eusebio] Di Francesco puts his faith in young players – last year Mirko Antonucci made his debut, and I hope I will get the same chances.

“Monchi has really welcomed me. He told me that he, the coach and the club are all very pleased that I have joined – now it is down to me.”

Zaniolo has taken the No. 22 shirt at the Stadio Olimpico – and wants to put his best foot forward when his new teammates return to Trigoria for training in July.

“My aims? I want to improve each and every day in training, and show the coach that I have what it takes to play for this incredible club,” he said.

“This year I scored a lot of goals. I can play in central midfield, or as a trequartista. I think that knowing how to play in a number of different roles can help the team in tough moments.”

Santon, meanwhile, hopes the support of the fans can aid the first team as they look to improve on last season’s impressive performances in Italy and Europe.

“To have the Roma fans behind us will clearly have a huge impact,” he added. “The Stadio Olimpico has always been an exciting and challenging place to play. The fans are always fired up and it is a great place to play, even as an opponent.

“In my mind I see the game against Barcelona: the atmosphere was incredible and it was amazing to see.”