HARRISON, NEW JERSEY – MARCH 24: Nicolo Zaniolo of Italy stands before the first half of the Ecuador v Italy – International Friendly at Red Bull Arena on March 24, 2024 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
Roma have released another shocking statement into the Nicolò Zaniolo incident, accusing him of being intoxicated, urinating in the locker room and hospitalising two youth team players.
It all happened after last night’s Primavera youth team semi-final match at the Viola Park ground between Fiorentina, Zaniolo’s current club on loan from Galatasaray, and the Giallorossi.
Following a series of conflicting statements from the two clubs, and an apology from the player himself while insisting there was no physical violence, Roma have updated their response with some truly extraordinary details.
“On the evening of May 26, following the Primavera semi-final match Fiorentina vs AS Roma at Viola Park, Nicolò Zaniolo (Fiorentina first team) unlawfully entered the Roma dressing room area accompanied by an associate, despite lacking accreditation.
“Witnesses report Zaniolo appeared visibly intoxicated. He urinated in Roma facilities, provoked players, and, without verbal exchange, physically struck Mattia Almaviva and violently pushed Marco Litti against a bench.
“Litti had recently undergone shoulder surgery. Both players required hospitalization: Almaviva received a 10-day recovery prognosis, Litti 21 days.
“AS Roma stands firmly by its youth players and is appalled by the violent and unjustifiable behavior witnessed at Viola Park.
“We trust that the institutions will act decisively to ensure accountability and protect the values of Italian football.”
A FIGC investigation has already begun into the controversial incident, with Zaniolo at risk of a lengthy ban.
He is currently on loan from Galatasaray, but Fiorentina had already decided not to activate their option to make that move permanent.
The Italy international is 25 years old, whereas Litti is 18 and Almaviva turned 19 in February.
Zaniolo’s rapport with Roma has been extremely tense since he demanded a transfer in January 2023, moving to Galatasaray.
There were loan spells with Aston Villa, Atalanta and Fiorentina, but no club wanted to make the move permanent.
Now it remains to be seen if there is a ban, if it is extended globally by FIFA and if Galatasaray also wish to take action against their player.
