Aston Villa flop ‘urinates and hospitalises two youth players’

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 28 May 2025 05:58 CDT
• 5 min read

News

A storm has erupted involving Italy international and ex-Aston Villa player Nicolo Zaniolo, who has been accused by Roma of being drunk, urinating in the dressing room and hospitalising two youth team players.

The incident is alleged to have taken place after the Primavera Youth semi final at Viola Park on Monday between Fiorentina and Roma.

Zaniolo, who is on loan at Fiorentina from Galatasaray and previously played for Roma, went to the game as a spectator.

After the match, which was won by Fiorentina, he visited the dressing rooms of both teams.

While in the Roma dressing room, it is reported y multiple sources that an argument broke out between Zaniolo and Roma youth players.

There have since been claims and counter claims from both clubs and the player himself.

Zaniolo is accused of punching two Roma youth players, causing them to be hospitalised. He is also accused of being intoxicated and urinating in the locker room.

Roma have now put out a statement, with some very strong accusations against Zaniolo.

What did Roma say?

“On the evening of May 26, following the Primavera semi-final match Fiorentina vs AS Roma at Viola Park, Nicolò Zaniolo (Fiorentina first team) unlawfully entered the Roma dressing room area accompanied by an associate, despite lacking accreditation.

“Witnesses report Zaniolo appeared visibly intoxicated. He urinated in Roma facilities, provoked players, and, without verbal exchange, physically struck Mattia Almaviva and violently pushed Marco Litti against a bench.

“Litti had recently undergone shoulder surgery. Both players required hospitalization: Almaviva received a 10-day recovery prognosis, Litti 21 days.

“AS Roma stands firmly by its youth players and is appalled by the violent and unjustifiable behavior witnessed at Viola Park.

“We trust that the institutions will act decisively to ensure accountability and protect the values of Italian football.”

The FIGC has now opened an investigation into the incident, with Zaniolo risking a long ban if found guilty.

Zaniolo has denied any physical violence took place.

“At the end of the match, I went into the locker room to congratulate the Fiorentina lads, then passed through the Roma room to salute and compliment them on their season.

“However, at a certain point they started to insult me, so at that stage, to avoid the situation degenerating, I preferred to simply leave.”

He has also apologised for his part in whatever took place.

“I want to apologise with all my heart for what happened yesterday,” wrote Zaniolo on his Instagram Stories.

“I know that I reacted badly and I take full responsibility. I went there with the sole intent of giving a positive sign, to show my solidarity with the lads in a difficult moment after the match.

“Unfortunately, I was verbally provoked by a young lad and, my mistake, lost my temper. It is a mistake that weighs on me, especially as I know that I ought to be setting an example to the younger players.

“However, I wish to clarify that the facts of the matter are very different to the version given and on my part, other than a verbal discussion, there was no physically aggressive behaviour.

“I know that I left some people down with this incident, but I hope you can understand that it was not my intention to disrespect anyone. Having said that, I renew my apology.

“Now as a man, a sportsman, and a person who loves this world, I want to rebuild and look forward with humility.”

Zaniolo has endured a disastrous 2024-25 season on loan from Galatasaray.

He spent the first half of the season at Atalanta but struggled so badly that they allowed him to cut his loan short in January.

He then spent the second half of the season on loan at Fiorentina where he also flopped.

Last season, Zaniolo was on loan at Aston Villa, where he was also a big disappointment.

He will now return to Turkey with Galatasaray, with his future and the interest from serious clubs very much in doubt.

Football transfer news headlines today

Cristiano Ronaldo contract talks with Crystal Palace owner: 'Similar' deal to Al-Nassr offered

Martin Zubimendi 'waiting' for Real Madrid despite Arsenal agreement

Bruno Fernandes given '72-hour transfer deadline' by Al-Hilal

Transfer News LIVE - every rumour, every done deal: Chelsea's €100m GAMBLE, Sesko breaks SILENCE

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•Google Play

•App Store