Press conference: Ibanez, Perez and Villar meet the media

Defender Roger Ibanez, midfielder Gonzalo Villar and forward Carles Perez all faced questions from the press, as they reflected on their moves to the Italian capital and their expectations for the next chapter in their careers.

Here's what all three had to say...

CARLES PEREZ

Have you noticed any differences in the way defenders mark in La Liga and Serie A?

“Yes, [Paulo] Fonseca told me about that the first time we spoke on the phone and I experienced it myself in the first game. I must admit I found it quite hard in that first match but I felt a lot more comfortable in my second game and it went better.”

What's your personal goal? To go back to Barcelona an even better player one day?

“If I've joined Roma, it's because I believe in this club and I want to improve and become an important player here. Barcelona is in the past. I've signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with Roma and my mind is set on developing here.”

What opinion did you have of Roma before coming here and what was it that convinced you this was the right club for you?

“I've always thought of Roma as a great club. The chat I had with the boss made up my mind: he explained what I could bring to this team. I'm delighted to have joined a great club.”


GONZALO VILLAR

How are you settling in?

“We've been given a fantastic reception by the sporting director, the team and the coach. We're settling in well and quickly. I'm really keen to work.”

What do you think your best position is? Do you feel you can fill in for Amadou Diawara?

“Diawara is a great player and we're all sad about his injury. Hopefully he'll be back with us soon. I feel comfortable playing as a No.8 alongside a more defensive midfielder. I've played as an attacking midfielder too and I'm happy to play wherever the boss needs me in midfield.”

Your coach said you lost two kilos before joining Roma because of the stress. What happened?

“It's true. The period from 20 to 30 January was really hectic. I desperately wanted to join Roma but it didn't look like they were able to complete the deal. In the end it all turned out well and I was able to relax again.”

Are you ready to for this new challenge at a big club?

“Obviously there's lots of pressure in Rome, as there is at all great clubs. We're used to it and up for it. As the boss says, if you can't handle the pressure, you should do another job. We're ready for it.”

ROGER IBANEZ

What sort of defender are you?

“I'm fast, good in the air and I like to have the ball at my feet. It's easy to talk, though; it's up to me to show what I can do out on the pitch.”

As you've just come from Atalanta, do you have a suggestion for the team ahead of the match this weekend?

“I spent a year there so I know them well, but I'm here now in a new team. We know it's going to be a difficult game against a direct rival but we're preparing very well for it.”

Do you think you can have a role to play in this squad? Is there a past Roma defender in particular you look up to?

“I know there's a lot of competition for places but I want to play my part. This club has a great history and lots of world-class players have played here before. We've come here to do our best and are trying to settle in as quickly as possible. We'll work hard to win trophies.”

Is it true you went to have lunch together?

“Yes, we had lunch together after training yesterday. There's a great group of lads here. They've welcomed us in really well and made us all feel a part of it. Spending time together helps you bond as a group so you can work together to achieve your goals.”

Do you feel ready for this challenge?

“I'm ready to give everything for this team and to play my part.”