Jose Mourinho spoke of reports of a heated discussion with Nicolas Zaniolo in training, a dispute that prompted the Portuguese coach to leave the Italian international on the bench during the two matches against Venice and Genoa.
“Zaniolo did not play for Venezia because he had physical problems. (…) I want to ask the Rome press not to invent problems or lies. I understand that lies can sell newspapers, but I hope that the Roma Press will allow Zaniolo to grow in peace.
A match that saw the winger return to the title, but in the position of an attacking midfielder, an adaptation that would have stimulated discussion with the coach. In this position, Zaniolo emerged with a goal and a decisive pass in the duel with the Ukrainians.
“I can play in midfield, at the extreme or in any position in attack. The coach decides where I have to play and I am here to serve the team,” the 22-year-old said at the end of the game, assuming Mourinho’s “punishment” It had an effect: “Staying on the bench took me away to think and accept my coach’s decisions.”
“I like to be under pressure and respond on the pitch. He concluded that Mourinho taught me not to be complacent after a good performance and that I have to demand more of myself to keep improving.”
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