Donyell Malen is a name that resonates with football fans across the globe. A Dutch professional footballer with a dynamic playing style, Malen has carved out an impressive career trajectory, from his early days in youth academies to becoming a key player for Borussia Dortmund and the Netherlands national team. With his speed, agility, and goal-scoring prowess, he’s a rising star in the sport. Beyond his on-field exploits, there are several intriguing aspects of his life and career that make him stand out.
Here are seven interesting facts about Donyell Malen that showcase his journey, personality, and impact on football.
1. A multicultural heritage shapes his identity
Malen was born on January 19, 1999, in Wieringen, Netherlands, to a Surinamese father, Robert Malen, and a Dutch mother, Mariska Manshanden. This multicultural background has played a significant role in shaping his identity both on and off the pitch. His father, a former footballer who played for Surinamese youth teams, introduced him to the sport early on, while his mother provided unwavering support throughout his career. Malen’s Surinamese roots connect him to a rich footballing tradition, with the likes of Clarence Seedorf and Ruud Gullit also hailing from Surinamese descent.
2. He turned down Manchester United and Chelsea for Arsenal
At the age of 16, Malen made a bold decision that would define the early stages of his career. After impressing at Ajax’s renowned youth academy, where he joined at age nine, he caught the attention of several top European clubs. Manchester United and Chelsea were among those vying for his signature, but Malen opted to join Arsenal in 2015. His reasoning? A deep admiration for Arsenal legends Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp, two players he idolized growing up. Despite Ajax’s resistance to his departure, Malen’s move to London showcased his ambition and determination to follow in the footsteps of his heroes. Although he didn’t break into Arsenal’s first team, scoring 44 goals in two seasons for their youth sides laid a strong foundation for his future success.
3. A record-breaking night with PSV Eindhoven
Malen’s time at PSV Eindhoven marked his emergence as a prolific goal-scorer, and one particular game stands out as a testament to his talent. On September 14, 2019, he scored all five goals in PSV’s 5-0 thrashing of Vitesse in the Eredivisie. This remarkable feat made him the first PSV player since legendary striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to score five goals in a single league match. At just 20 years old, Malen’s performance announced his arrival on the big stage and earned him widespread recognition. That season, he continued to shine, finishing with 19 goals in 32 matches during the 2020-21 campaign, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
4. A speedster compared to elite forwards
One of Malen’s standout attributes is his blistering pace, a trait that has drawn comparisons to some of football’s fastest players. His speed and agility allow him to outrun defenders and create scoring opportunities, making him a nightmare for opposing backlines. During his time at Arsenal’s youth academy, former Ajax chief Frank de Boer likened him to Alexis Sánchez, noting his explosive movement and technical ability. Similarly, his combination of speed and finishing has evoked parallels with Borussia Dortmund teammate Karim Adeyemi.
5. A senior international debut to remember
Malen’s senior debut for the Netherlands national team was nothing short of memorable. On September 6, 2019, at the age of 20, he came off the bench in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier against Germany in Hamburg. With the score tied at 2-2, Malen scored the Netherlands’ third goal in the 58th minute, helping secure a thrilling 4-2 victory over their rivals. This goal not only marked his arrival on the international stage but also showcased his knack for delivering in high-pressure situations. Since then, he has earned over 41 caps and scored nine goals for the Oranje, including key contributions in tournaments like UEFA Euro 2020, proving his worth as a reliable forward.
6. A personal life rooted in family and privacy
Off the pitch, Malen is a private individual who values his family above all else. He is in a long-term relationship with Delisha, with whom he shares a son named London Felipe Lou Malen, affectionately called “Lonnie.” Born during Malen’s rise to prominence, Lonnie has brought immense joy to the couple, who prefer to keep their personal life out of the spotlight. Delisha, a supportive partner, often accompanies Malen to events and matches but maintains a low profile. Malen’s mother, Mariska, also played a pivotal role in his journey, driving him to training sessions three times a week during his youth and even moving to London to support him during his Arsenal stint.
7. A transfer journey full of twists
Malen’s club career has been a rollercoaster of moves that highlight his adaptability and ambition. After leaving Arsenal in 2017 without a senior appearance—due to his impatience for first-team football—he returned to the Netherlands with PSV Eindhoven for a modest £540,000. His value skyrocketed at PSV, leading to a £27 million transfer to Borussia Dortmund in 2021, where he replaced Jadon Sancho. Then, on January 13, 2025, Malen made another significant move, joining Premier League side Aston Villa for a reported £21 million plus add-ons. His Premier League debut came later that month, and he scored his first goal for Villa in a 3-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on April 2, 2025.