VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: Nicolo Zaniolo of Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between Verona and Fiorentina at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 23, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Fiorentina and Galatasaray flop Nicolò Zaniolo has apologised for ‘losing his temper’ in an altercation with Roma youth team players last night, but denies that he punched anyone.
The incident occurred in the Roma locker room at the Viola Park ground after the Viola won the semi-final of the Primavera youth league play-off semi-final.
Zaniolo sets out his version
“I want to apologise with all my heart for what happened yesterday,” wrote Zaniolo on his Instagram Stories.
“I know that I reacted badly and I take full responsibility. I went there with the sole intent of giving a positive sign, to show my solidarity with the lads in a difficult moment after the match.
“Unfortunately, I was verbally provoked by a young lad and, my mistake, lost my temper. It is a mistake that weighs on me, especially as I know that I ought to be setting an example to the younger players.
“However, I wish to clarify that the facts of the matter are very different to the version given and on my part, other than a verbal discussion, there was no physically aggressive behaviour.
“I know that I left some people down with this incident, but I hope you can understand that it was not my intention to disrespect anyone. Having said that, I renew my apology.
“Now as a man, a sportsman, and a person who loves this world, I want to rebuild and look forward with humility.”
Investigation into Zaniolo incident
Zaniolo is now under investigation from the FIGC as a result of the incident and could potentially face a ban.
Roma released a statement accusing him of hitting two teenage players, while the Fiorentina response last night gave Zaniolo’s version of events.
“At the end of the match, I went into the locker room to congratulate the Fiorentina lads, then passed through the Roma room to salute and compliment them on their season.
“However, at a certain point they started to insult me, so at that stage, to avoid the situation degenerating, I preferred to simply leave.”
Fiorentina had already decided not to activate their option to buy the Italy international outright even before this incident, sending him back to Galatasaray.
It is only the latest failed loan for the 25-year-old, who also had spells at Aston Villa and Atalanta, without any club wanting to keep him on a permanent basis.
