Since joining Brentwood Town, Romél Aarons Royal has made quite the impression on supporters and our coaching staff. The centre back has become a mainstay in the Blues’ defence since he opted to ply his trade at The Brentwood Arena in October 2023. He made his debut coming off the bench against Gorleston and has made fourteen appearances since signing for the club. Romél also found the net in our away victory at Grays Athletic. We took the opportunity to find out a bit more about our defender, and his career to date.

What were your first memories of football?

“My first memories of football were playing for my local team called Moonshot FC. I joined lthem around the age 3-4 years old.” Romél‘s older sister had an influence on him getting into football. He recalls her playing for local teams catching his attention.

“As well as my sister, my biggest influence was my dad growing up as he was the reason I started playing the game. I have lots of memories of when he used to take me to my matches when’s I was little, no matter how far it was. He’s always been my biggest supporter and I’m truly thankful for him.”

The footballing influence from his family didn’t stop there for young Romél. “Growing up I was a Tottenham Hotspur supporter. It was passed down from my grandad to my dad, and then to me.”

One of Romél’s footballing heroes growing up was Ronaldinho, who in his own words was the reason he fell in love with the game.

What was Romél’s path to Brentwood Town?

Aarons Royal made the switch from Welling United, having also played for Watford, Charlton Athletic and Cray Valley Paper Mills as a youngster. Romél says his path to Brentwood Town hasn’t been an easy one, as he joined us from a National League club, but the opportunity to get regular first team action and to improve each week was behind his decision to make the move. Romél has certainly done that so far and he is “fortunate and grateful for the opportunity” he’s had at the club.

What has been your best memory in football to date?

A stand out memory in football so far for the defender was representing his secondary school in the National Schools Final at Stoke City’s Bet365 Stadium. ”It was a proud moment for me seeing my family support me in the stand.”

What current centre backs do you enjoy watching and try to emulate on the pitch?

“I would say Antonio Rudiger and Virgil Van Dijk. I just try to study those players as much as possible and take bits from their game and try implementing them into mine.”

What advice would you give to an aspiring young player?

Whilst Romél may look up to the likes of Rudiger and Van Dijk, his current form is bound to be inspiring the next generation at Brentwood Town. He advises young players: “You should never compare your journey to someone else’s because everyone’s timing is different. Always work hard and believe in your ability.”

With Brentwood Town chasing promotion this season, Romél will be looking to continue his fine form in a blue shirt at home to Walthamstow this weekend.