Roma midfielder Nicola Zalewski has found himself at the center of controversy after refusing a transfer to Galatasaray. The club subsequently excluded him from the squad, but Zalewski’s representatives have now spoken out in defense of the player’s decision.
In a statement released through the ANSA news agency, Zalewski’s management agency GP Soccer and Management emphasized the player’s right to make his own career choices. They stated, “A player has an inalienable right to decide whether transfers are finalized or not regarding his professional activities, without being conditioned or forced.”
The agency clarified that while Zalewski had initially been open to a move to Galatasaray, he ultimately decided against it despite continued interest from the Turkish club. They expressed gratitude for Galatasaray’s efforts but maintained that the final decision rested with the player.
The statement also criticized media reports of the situation, calling them “creative reconstructions” that do not accurately represent reality. The agency urged journalists to gather all facts before reporting to avoid “unnecessary speculation that damages the player.”
This situation has put Roma in a difficult position, as Zalewski’s contract is set to expire in June 2025. The club was reportedly eager to complete the transfer to Galatasaray, both to generate profit and to avoid potentially losing the player on a free transfer next summer.
