Fiorentina’s Nicolo Zaniolo Dismisses Rumours of Confrontation with Roma Youth Players

Fiorentina midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo has refuted claims of being involved in a physical confrontation with youth players from AS Roma following Fiorentina’s 2-1 victory over Roma in the Primavera 1 Under-20 playoff semi-finals on Monday.

In a statement released on Monday evening, Roma alleged that Zaniolo was part of an incident.

“Reports indicate that the player allegedly entered the Primavera team’s dressing room after the match and exhibited provocative behaviour towards several young players,” Roma stated.

“During this encounter, two members of the Primavera squad reportedly faced physical aggression.”

Twenty-five-year-old Zaniolo, who is currently on loan at Fiorentina from Turkish club Galatasaray, took to Instagram on Tuesday to deny any physical aggression.

“I went there solely to convey a positive message… Unfortunately, I was verbally provoked by one individual, and, regrettably, I lost my cool,” he wrote.

“I must emphasise that the reality of what occurred differs greatly from the narrative being presented, and aside from a verbal exchange, I did not engage in any physically aggressive conduct.

“I sincerely apologise for what transpired yesterday. I recognise that my reaction was inappropriate, and I take full responsibility for it.”