Italy national team coach Roberto Mancini has heaped words of warning onto Roma starlet Nicolò Zaniolo, who is in the midst of a transfer saga. The 23-year-old is the subject of great interest from Milan and Juventus, but especially the latter, after the Giallorossi gave up on the idea of keeping him if they are to receive their hefty asking price.
Speaking to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mancini termed the youngster’s career so far as ‘lucky’, and was hesitant to pass judgment on his potential transfer.
“I don’t know whether it’s good or bad for him to leave Roma. All I know is that Zaniolo must realize that he’s been incredibly lucky throughout his career.”
Mancini was the one to call up Zaniolo to the senior Azzurri squad, handing him his debut in March 2019 when he had yet to blossom. He further urged him not to waste the talent and qualities he has.
“In a split second he was able to play for Italy and Roma at the same time, he can’t squander any more time and opportunities. He cannot afford to waste the qualities at his disposal.”
The young forward has 22 goals in 111 games for the Giallorossi. However, he has had limited appearances on the international stage, with just 9 caps, due to multiple injuries.