Former striker Paolo Di Canio believes Unai Emery could be the ideal coach for Nicolò Zaniolo at Aston Villa but warns the Italy international that he has to ‘do well’ or it will be ‘the end.’
Zaniolo made his Premier League debut in a 3-1 win over Burnley on Sunday and had an immediate impact, receiving praise from Villa fans on social media.
The former Roma striker has joined the Premier League side on loan with an option to buy after barely six months at Galatasaray.
“He has to do well, or it’s the end,” Di Canio told Sky Sport Italia on Sunday evening.
“He didn’t stop at Galatasaray and he could have continued there playing some games in European competitions. It would have been different football, anyway. Now he has joined the most fascinating and difficult league in the world.
“Zaniolo has a chance with an excellent coach who recognises merit. If Emery signed Zaniolo, it’s because he believes in him, he is a meritocratic coach.”
Zaniolo pushed to leave Roma this past January, joining Galatasaray on a permanent transfer in February. He scored five goals in 11 appearances with the Turkish giants before joining Aston Villa. Zaniolo played in attack in his first Premier League appearance, but how will Emery use him this term?
“Coutinho is injured and is expected to leave; they are not identical but play in similar positions,” argued Di Canio.
“Zaniolo is playing in the middle and, who knows, he could become a starter in some games. Surely, if a player has talent and no fear, Emery gives him a chance.”
Zaniolo could be called up by new Italy coach Luciano Spalletti later this week. The Italian striker has scored two goals in 13 appearances with the Azzurri making his debut in 2019 under Roberto Mancini.
I think Zaniolo lacks brains.. immature and poor attitude. This seems too common in many young Italian prospects. I hope I am wrong and would like to see him flourish. He has talent. He needs to get serious, stick to a solid physical training regiment, and most important – he humble.