Aston Villa fans had mixed reactions to Italy international Nicolò Zaniolo’s performance against Manchester City, as he contributed to the equaliser, but then made a huge error.
The former Roma player, who is on loan from Galatasaray with an option to buy at the end of the season, made a rare start in this evening’s Premier League match against the reigning champions.
He had wandered offside on the equalising goal, but had the good grace to realise that and show no interest in the ball, allowing his teammate Jhon Duran to score.
Jhon Duran equalises for Aston Villa! 🔥
It's 1-1 at the Etihad! 👀
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/igeFogykW9
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 3, 2024
However, soon after Zaniolo was lambasted by fans after he jumped out of the way of Phil Foden’s free kick.
Phil Foden. What a player! 💥
That's 1⃣9⃣ goals this season for the Englishman! 🔥
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/lAxmALtrsr
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 3, 2024
The responses on social media ranged from urging Villa to “dock his wages” for “a lack of bravery” to calling him an “absolute disgrace” for his “pathetic” reaction in the wall.
Zaniolo in the wall when the ball was coming towards him pic.twitter.com/34jInSXTwj
— Paddy Power (@paddypower) April 3, 2024
On the same level with Kean & Chiesa. The most overrated & overhyped players today.