Fiorentina’s Nicolo Zaniolo Refutes Claims of Conflict with Roma’s Youth Squad

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

Roma issued a statement on Monday evening alleging that Zaniolo was part of an incident.

“Reports suggest that the player entered the dressing room of the Primavera team after the match, displaying provocative behaviour towards some of the youth players,” Roma stated.

“During this confrontation, it was claimed that two players from the Primavera squad were physically assaulted.”

The 25-year-old Zaniolo, currently on loan at Fiorentina from Turkish side Galatasaray, took to Instagram on Tuesday to deny any claims of physical aggression.

“I went there with the sole aim of delivering a positive message… Unfortunately, I was verbally provoked by a player, and in that moment, I lost my temper,” he expressed.

“However, I must clarify that the reality is quite different from the portrayal, and aside from a verbal exchange, there was no behaviour on my part that could be deemed physically aggressive.”

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