Italy, the Zaniolo mystery: “I just ask that my privacy be respected”
Bad news for Roberto Mancini ahead of the national team’s upcoming matches. Nicolò Zaniolo has left the Italian national team’s training camp in Coverciano for personal reasons and will not be available to the head coach for the Nations League matches against France and Belgium.
The news broke on Tuesday, November 10, surprising the Italian soccer community. The Udinese player had returned to the national team after a long absence and was considered one of the possible attacking options ahead of the match against France, scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at San Siro.
No further details were initially provided regarding the reasons behind the decision. His departure, however, does not appear to be related to physical issues, but solely to personal matters.
That evening, Zaniolo himself addressed the situation via a story posted on his Instagram profile, confirming his decision and asking for respect for his privacy.
“Leaving Coverciano wasn’t easy, but I made this decision for strictly personal reasons. Wearing the Azzurri jersey is always a source of pride. Thanks to the coach, the staff, and my teammates for their support,” the player wrote.
He then made a specific request to those trying to piece together what happened: “I only ask that my privacy be respected, and that no credence be given to speculations that have nothing to do with me.”
Finally, Zaniolo reaffirmed his connection to the national team: “I carry this jersey in my heart, and I’ll keep working every day to wear it again.”
