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This is what our striker had to say:
How do you feel now after a frustrating match against Como? Is the gap with Real Madrid something Roma are starting to bridge?
“We need to focus on ourselves rather than thinking about any gap there might be. For me personally, the Como game was frustrating and disappointing but that's how it went. I think it was clear to see that I had no intention of hurting anyone. We're massively motivated for this match tomorrow. It'll be a great night for Roma because we're playing at home in the Champions League against a top club like Real Madrid.”
You've played Real Madrid twice before but never at home with your own fans behind you. How much of a difference do you think they can make?
“The fans' support is very important to us, especially when things are difficult. When you play away, you have to consider other factors. Now we're playing at home in front of our fans and I think they can be a huge help to us.”
What do you think it will be like playing for Roma in the Champions League?
“It's special. When I came here last year, one of our main objectives was to get back into the Champions League. To be able to play our first home game against Real Madrid is very special indeed. We're all looking forward to it.”
You hit the ground running here and looked like you'd been here for ages. What makes Roma special?
“First of all, the coach, for believing in me and giving me so much playing time. My team-mates have welcomed me really well too, both as a person and as a footballer. They've always helped me. All the staff have too. Then there's the fans and the city, which are just amazing. Putting all those things together helps you perform at your best as a player.”
Have you spoken to Jude Bellingham, your former Dortmund team-mate?
“No, I haven't spoken to him. I know him well, though. We played together for a long time. He's a special footballer, immensely talented. We get on really well and I haven't seen him for a while so it will be nice to meet up again.”
You apologised to the team for what happened against Como. Did you really feel responsible for what happened? Is tomorrow the perfect opportunity to put it all behind you?
“I have to say that watching my team-mates playing the match afterwards was one of the most stressful experiences I've had in a long time. When you get a red card, you feel it's your fault. Tomorrow's next match is a different matter. There's no connection with what happened at the weekend. We'll move on.”
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