Roma fans booed Nicolò Zaniolo during their 1-0 win over Genoa on Thursday, causing a debate between José Mourinho and former Giallorossi defender Vincent Candela.
Zaniolo’s contract expires in June 2024 and he hasn’t yet reached an agreement to extend his stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
Despite scoring the winner in last season’s Conference League Final, the Italy international has had several ups and downs over the last two seasons and has only scored two goals in 17 appearances across all competitions this term.
Roma fans seem to have lost patience with the ex-Inter starlet who was booed at the Stadio Olimpico during a 1-0 win against Genoa in the Coppa Italia Round of 16 yesterday night.
Mourinho defended Zaniolo after the final whistle: “A player who gives his best always has my affection,” he said during a post-match press conference.
“I was sorry to hear boos for Zaniolo, but when there’s a person who gets money from the club and openly criticises a player, he opens the door [to boos]. People follow those who have a story with this club.”
Mourinho referred to former Roma defender Candela who had criticised Zaniolo a few days ago saying that he ‘expects more’ from him.
“I don’t think fans booed Nicolò because of what I said,” Candela wrote on Instagram this morning.
“I’d be sorry because who knows me is aware that I always express my opinion with the utmost respect and love for the club, the team and the coach. I didn’t want to cause controversy, a big hug to everyone and always Forza Roma.”
I agree with Vincent, FORZA ROMAA!
I’ve watched zaniolo he’s a frustrating player at times overated
I never liked him.
The boo will make Zaniolo to know that not all that is glitter is gold. He should sit down and restructure everything about his life style.
Zaniolo is a good player but far away from being a TEAM PLAYER.
HE IS NOT A TEAM PLAYER AT ALL.
I HATE THAT.😡
Unfair from an ex player. Shame. I wonder if the ex was always superb all his playing career.