Daniele De Rossi says he would have left Roma 'if a big European or American club' had made an offer

Daniele De Rossi has revealed he would have left Roma in the summer if he had received a suitable offer.

De Rossi signed a two-year deal in May, but said if the right European or American club had offered him a deal, he would have left the Stadio Olimpico.

Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, De Rossi said: "I think I ought to have an experience elsewhere. I had already decided to do it last year, as for long periods there was no contact with the club over my renewal.

"If a big European or American club had come in, I probably wouldn't be here today. It's no secret one of my dreams is to go to America for a lifestyle and football experience.

"Frankly, 16 years at Roma is like 32 elsewhere, because they really weigh on you and are a tough slog. Thank God, I am physically having the best seasons of my career, but the pressure is often excessive here."

De Rossi said that the biggest offer he received was from another Italian club, but he ultimately decided to stay at Roma, who he has represented his entire senior career, saying: "My heart and love won out. I couldn't betray the city and the fans."

The 34-year-old took over as club captain after fellow one-club man Francesco Totti retired in July.

Speaking of Totti's emotional on-pitch departure, De Rossi said: "I always thought it would be great if I could, with all due respect and the correct proportions, experience a day like the one Totti had when he retired.

"I don't know when and I don't know how, but it'd be wonderful to experience such an intense salute with the fans."