Just three years ago, Nicolò Zaniolo was considered Roma`s most sought-after player. So much so that then-manager José Mourinho personally intervened to keep him at the club, despite repeated interest from Juventus, which had the approval of their management and coach. However, a disagreement with the club ensued, leading Zaniolo to push for a departure as early as January. Galatasaray ultimately secured his transfer, ahead of other clubs, as few were concrete options or willing to spend fifteen million euros for the attacking midfielder at that time.
Since then, his career path has involved significant movement. He didn`t perform poorly in Turkey, scoring five goals in ten Super Lig appearances, before deciding to try his luck in the Premier League. Aston Villa, his destination, qualified for the Champions League, but they did not make his €5 million loan move permanent, partly due to a few too many injuries. A year ago, he joined Atalanta, primarily at the request of Gian Piero Gasperini. His time in Bergamo wasn`t successful, although he did manage to score some important goals. His subsequent six months last season at Fiorentina also proved to be somewhat disappointing.
So, what comes next? He is in need of a suitable environment to reignite his career, though identifying where that might be is currently difficult. Torino has reportedly taken an interest in him, considering whether they can help him find his form again, much like they have done with other players in the past. Today, Nicolò Zaniolo celebrates his 26th birthday.
