Nicolò Zaniolo has opened up about his departure from Roma, admitting he wishes he had handled it differently. In an exclusive interview with SportWeek, the 1999-born Udinese midfielder reflected on his time in the Italian capital with a mix of gratitude and regret.

"If I could go back, I'd part ways with Roma less abruptly," Zaniolo confessed. "That club and the city raised me. They shaped who I am today." The 24-year-old's candid remarks shed light on a transfer saga that left many fans divided.

Zaniolo, who rose through Roma's youth ranks and became a fan favorite at the Stadio Olimpico, acknowledged the challenges of growing up in the spotlight. "I've suffered a lot of prejudice against me, but who in their twenties hasn't had fun and made mistakes?" he said, defending his youthful indiscretions while showing maturity in hindsight.

Now plying his trade with Udinese, Zaniolo is focused on the present. "Today I don't think about what will be, but what is," he stated, signaling a desire to move forward while keeping the lessons of his past close. For fans of Italian football, his words serve as a reminder of the emotional weight that comes with transfers—especially when leaving a club that feels like home.