Bianda eager to learn from the best after completing his move to Roma

Young defender William Bianda has revealed it was an easy decision for him to join Roma once he heard about the club's interest in him.

The France Under-18 international became the first player born in 2000 or later to sign for the Giallorossi, when he put pen-to-paper on a five-year contract on Thursday.

Speaking after signing the deal, Bianda sat down with Roma TV to speak about his feelings after making the switch to the Italian capital.

Hello, William! Yesterday you landed, today you had your medical. How were your first few hours in Rome? What are your first impressions?

“I’ve enjoyed the few hours that I’ve been here. It was all fine arriving. The journey took a while but I’m really happy to be here in Rome. The medical went fine – there weren’t any particular issues. I’m happy to be here.”

Have you had a chance to speak to Monchi? If so, what did he say to you?

“I spoke to Monchi. He made me feel at ease right away. He explained the sporting project here, which was very interesting. I’m sure this is the right choice for me, for my progression and for this next stage of my career.

“Roma are a very big club. There’s a family feel here too. There’s a culture of winning and also working hard. It made me feel positive about the project right away.”

What did you think when you heard about Roma’s interest in you?

“When I heard Roma were interested, I was very flattered. It’s an honour to be sought after by a big club. Roma are one of the top three teams in Italy. Being chased by a club like this can only make you happy.”

Final question: what are your objectives for the upcoming season?

“My aim is to integrate well here, to be ready and at 100% every time the coach needs me. I’ll be patient too because I’m a young player – I’m here to learn. I know that I may not play at the start but that’s not a problem.

“I’m here to learn from the other defenders that are here, such as Federico Fazio, Kostas Manolas and Juan Jesus. I’m here to learn and I’ll be happy to get out onto the pitch when I get the chance.”