Kumbulla: The important thing is to bounce back

Here's what the Albania international had to say, as he reflected on Sunday's disappointing defeat against Atalanta.

“We will obviously analyse it with the boss,” Kumbulla told Teleradiostereo.

“In the second half, it’s clear that we struggled. We got tired, but we were also up against a really good side.

"But we need to bounce back quickly, because if we keep looking back we’ll never improve. We need to analyse the mistakes made and make sure we don’t repeat them.”

Do you think Roma seem to struggle against quality opposition, or is it just a coincidence that is how it’s gone recently?

“We’ve shown that’s not the case. We’ve already drawn with Juventus and AC Milan this season, and we’ve shown that we can play well against anyone. Unfortunately yesterday the second half was poor, but we’ll make up for it in the next few games.”

Has it been tough adjusting to life in a big city? Have you noticed the change?

“Not at the start, because I was focused on the team. I wanted to make sure I was available to the coach from the off. But, honestly it hasn’t changed much: I’m feeling comfortable, I’m at home a lot. In Rome I do what I was doing in [home town] Peschiera.”

Roma has a lot of good defenders now. How have you settled into the unit, and what is different about the way Paulo Fonseca likes to work?

“It’s different compared to last season, but I’ve learned a lot as a result. Having players alongside you like Chris Smalling, Gianluca Mancini and Roger Ibanez means you can only learn a lot from them. I already feel like I’ve improved a lot since I got here.”

What was it that made you choose Roma? It happened so fast…

“Yes, Roma made their interest in me very clear. Then I saw the fanbase, the coach and the plans the club has for the future, and I was convinced by all that. It all happened quickly but I never had any doubts about it.”