Nicolò Zaniolo has been officially presented as a Fiorentina player at the Viola Park, marking his return to the club where he began his youth career. The Italian forward, who spent the first half of the season with Atalanta, has joined Fiorentina on loan from Galatasaray with an obligation to buy set at €15.5 million if he plays 60% of the season’s matches for at least 30 minutes each.
During his presentation Zaniolo expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter in his career:
“Fiorentina is very important to me. I’ve played for many teams, but it was right for me to return here. I left when I was 16, I know everyone, and for me, this is like coming home. I’m focused on this team and will do everything for this shirt.”
The former Roma player also touched on his relationship with coach Palladino, stating, “I heard the Coach’s words, and he’s right when he says there was no need to convince me to come to Florence.”
Explaining his decision to join Fiorentina, Zaniolo revealed, “They had approached me in the summer, but I chose Atalanta. When the opportunity presented itself again in January, I didn’t hesitate.”
When asked about his teammate Moise Kean, Zaniolo commented, “I’ve known him for a long time, he’s doing very well here. Now I’m thinking about doing well with the team.”
In a touching moment, Zaniolo explained the significance behind his choice of jersey number: “I chose number 17 for a boy who was a victim during the earthquake in Turkey. I promised his father.”
