Nicolo Zaniolo has re-established himself as a Serie A star at Udinese and the winger has now spoken about his time at Roma and how it ended in a rather painful manner.
The Italian's tenure had started quite brightly, as he became a key player for the club as a teenager. Soon, injuries picked up and things turned sour due to off-the-field issues. His relationship with Roma soon broke down too, leading to a move to Galatasaray.
Zaniolo has now spoken to Calciomercatoabout a host of things involving his career so far and the Roma spell was a hot topic.
He described it as a fruitful period that taught him quite a lot.
Zaniolo said: "My time with the Giallorossi was one of the most important and educational of my life . I carry with me great joys – the Conference League victory, my debut at the Bernabéu, my first Serie A goal with Sassuolo – but also disappointments. I left many friends in Rome, my wife is from Rome, my first child was born there… we're even thinking about moving back there when my career ends."
Also opening up about the regrets, Zaniolo revealed he shouldn't have done specific things but his positive feelings about the club and the city haven't changed.
"Maybe I wouldn't do many things again , but without those mistakes and without injuries as serious as those to my cruciate ligament, I wouldn't be the person and athlete I am today."
"They taught me to take care of my body, nutrition, and prevention. Today I don't go on the pitch without prevention. I was sad to end my relationship with the club a little abruptly, which I still support and cheer for."
He also revealed that he does have long-term goals for his career and that is playing for the Azzurri once again.
"I always set short-term goals. Now I just want to get back on the pitch and compete at my level with Udinese. My biggest dream remains to play in a World Cup with Italy."
"With the club, the goal is to match or surpass last year's 50 points."
Kaustubh Pandey – GIFN
