Roma forward Nicolò Zaniolo has returned to action with the Giallorossi and said he ‘needs to make a big contribution’ this year, but stressed he’s ‘fine, happy and content’ with the progress ahead of 2021-22.
The 22-year-old scored the 2-1 goal in a 3-1 win over Belenenses and was happy with the performance after the match.
“We did what the coach asked of us,” Zaniolo told RomaTV. “Then in the second half we had a tougher time going to press them high, but the weather was very hot.
“We are very happy and we must continue like this, the path is the right one and now [Real] Betis await us. We take one game at a time and we hope to win as much as possible.”
Zaniolo missed the 2020-21 due to an ACL rupture but is back in action and eager to help the Giallorossi in Jose Mourinho’s first season at the helm.
The former Inter player said the preparations for the new campaign are ‘very good’ and vowed to be ready for the first match.
“It’s going very good. We always train with a smile and it’s a joy coming to the pitch,” Zaniolo continued. “I think it’s the most important thing during the pre-season. Always with the aim of being ready in August, for the first game of the championship.”
The youngster has been through an injury nightmare in recent years, rupturing the cruciate ligament in both knees and revealed he’s ‘happy and content’ by being able to train with his teammates again.
“I’m fine. Day after day I’m increasingly confident in my means and let’s say that this will be the 25th day that I’m with the team after a very long period out,” he added.
“I’m fine, happy and content. We are a good group and I hope to make a big contribution to the team this year, because I need it and we need it.”
The attacking midfielder signed a new deal with La Lupa in August 2019, tying him to the Olimpico until 2024.
So far, the Italy international has played 69 times for the Giallorossi, contributing 14 goals and six assists in the process.
🎙️ “Sto bene, spero di dare un grosso contributo alla squadra quest’anno. Ne ho bisogno…” 💪
Zaniolo al termine di #RomaBFS#ASRoma pic.twitter.com/aJQn7G2eaH
— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) August 4, 2021