Parma head coach Carlos Cuesta has heaped praise on Roma's new signing, Malen, calling him a "game-changer" ahead of their Serie A clash at the Stadio Ennio Tardini this weekend.

With Parma already mathematically safe from relegation, the pressure is off for Cuesta's side, but the Spanish tactician is determined to finish the season strong. Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Cuesta provided an injury update, confirming key absences: "Compared to the match against Inter, Bernabé will be out. Oristanio is also unavailable, and we'll need to monitor their conditions day by day."

When asked about his own future at the club, Cuesta remained focused on the task at hand. "Tomorrow I'll be on the bench," he said with conviction. "Our mentality hasn't changed since the start of the season. We have the privilege of representing Parma every day, and that's what drives us."

But it was Cuesta's assessment of Roma that really caught the attention. The 46-year-old coach identified Malen as the key difference-maker for the Giallorossi. "Malen has made the difference for them since his arrival compared to the start of the season. Roma are a different team with him on the pitch," Cuesta explained, highlighting the Dutch winger's impact since joining from Borussia Dortmund in January. With Malen adding pace and creativity to Roma's attack, Parma will need to be at their defensive best to contain the threat.