Nicolo Zaniolo has revealed the reason he left the Italy camp was due to an ankle injury, amid rumours of tension with international team-mate Mattia Zaccagni.
Roma midfielder Zaniolo’s former partner, social media influencer Chiara Nasti, is in now a relationship with Lazio attacker Zaccagni, with the pair expecting a baby.
And during the Giallorossi’s open-top bus celebration following their Europa Conference League trophy, Zaniolo was filmed laughing along to derogatory chants about the couple’s baby.
The led to reports of tension between Zaniolo and Zaccagni, who were both called up to the Italy squad by coach Roberto Mancini.
When it was announced Zaniolo, 22, was pulling out of the international squad, it led to rumours it was due to issues with Zaccagni.
However, the former Inter academy player posted on Instagram: “I have been forced to leave the national side due to an ankle knock.
“Now it’s time to recharge the batteries to start next season as strongly as possible.”
Roma are under investigation from the federal prosecutor for anti-sporting chants during their Conference League celebrations.
Zaniolo as nine Italy caps while Zaccagni has one.