Former Roma and Juventus star Zbigniew Boniek argues that Nicolò Zaniolo has ‘the potential to be an even better centre-forward than Dusan Vlahovic’ if used in that role.
The 23-year-old has taken up a number of positions so far in his career for the Giallorossi and Italy, largely on the right attacking side, but also as a support striker or in a deeper trequartista role.
He hasn’t really been used as a False 9 and Boniek believes his coaches Jose Mourinho and Roberto Mancini are missing a trick.
“Zaniolo has incredible potential. If you ask people what his position is, then everyone will give you a different response,” Boniek told New Sound Level radio.
“In my view, he is a classic Number 9. He can protect the ball, has physical strength, turns defenders well, is good in the air and can shoot.
“I always say when I see Vlahovic play that Zaniolo could do just as well, even perhaps better, because he also has this strong physicality. He really is a great player.”
Zaniolo’s career path has been affected by two serious knee ligament injuries that kept him out for the better part of two seasons.
The Italy international was able to play 42 competitive matches for Roma last term, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists.
That included five goals and three assists in the Europa Conference League, which was won by Roma with his goal in the Final against Feyenoord.