Nicolò Zaniolo has made a strong start as a new player for Atalanta, expressing his clear commitment to the club in his first comments. The talented forward revealed that as soon as he learned of Atalanta’s interest, he turned his attention solely to joining the team. “I wanted to work with Gian Piero Gasperini,” he stated, highlighting the coach as the ideal fit for him. “This move is the right step for my career at this moment,” he added.
Zaniolo is ready to take on any role on the pitch, saying, “I can play as a striker, attacking midfielder, or on either wing. I’m here to help the team in any way I can.” Recently recovering from his third surgery for a fractured fifth metatarsal in his left foot, he expressed optimism about his health. “I trained with the team for the first time on Monday. I feel much better; the injury is behind me,” he noted, while keeping his sights on short-term goals.
His immediate focus is on being fully fit for the UEFA Super Cup match on August 14 against Real Madrid, a team he faced when he made his professional debut back in September 2018. “I didn’t score then, so hopefully I can change that this time,” he said with a smile.
Zaniolo’s recent experiences playing for Galatasaray and Aston Villa, where he helped the team qualify for the Champions League, have contributed to his growth both as a player and as a person. “Playing abroad helped me develop, and now I feel more mature,” he reflected. He added that he does not feel the pressure of this opportunity, viewing it instead as a chance to seize.
“I’m not afraid of the competition here; the level is very high,” he continued, referring to Atalanta’s attacking lineup. Zaniolo is familiar with several players on the team, mentioning that he regularly sees his teammate Gianluca Scamacca outside of football as well. He concluded by recalling how challenging it was to play against Atalanta in the past, due to their physical strength and pressing game. “It felt like playing three matches in one,” he remarked.