Tensions erupted after the Primavera semi-final between Roma and Fiorentina, with Roma accusing Nicolò Zaniolo of assaulting two youth players. Fiorentina and Zaniolo deny the claims, sparking a heated exchange between clubs. Investigations may follow.

An unexpected and controversial incident has overshadowed the aftermath of the Primavera Championship semi-final between Roma and Fiorentina, with serious allegations surfacing against former Roma star Nicolò Zaniolo.

According to an official statement issued by AS Roma, the Italian international now playing for Fiorentina allegedly entered the dressing room of Roma's Primavera (Under-20) team following the match and physically assaulted two of the club’s youth players. The accusations have sparked immediate reactions from both clubs, with Zaniolo firmly denying any wrongdoing.

The match, played as part of Italy’s top-tier youth competition, ended in a heated atmosphere on the pitch. However, it was what allegedly transpired after the final whistle that has drawn widespread attention. Roma's statement, released late Sunday evening, expressed clear disapproval and concern over the behavior attributed to their former player.

"AS Roma reports that, at the end of today’s match, an unfortunate incident occurred involving player Nicolò Zaniolo. According to reconstructions, the player entered the Primavera team’s dressing room after the game and allegedly behaved provocatively towards some members of the Giallorossi youth academy. During the altercation, two Primavera players were reportedly physically assaulted. AS Roma strongly condemns any form of aggressive behavior or conduct that does not align with the values of sport," read the club’s official communication.

The wording leaves no ambiguity: Roma is treating the incident as serious, even if investigations are still in an early stage. The club’s use of terms like "provocative behavior" and "physical assault" suggests that internal reviews and possible disciplinary measures or legal actions could follow. This is especially significant given that Zaniolo, though now with Fiorentina, remains a high-profile figure with historic ties to Roma, having played for the club between 2018 and 2022.

Zaniolo, now 24, was once heralded as one of the most promising Italian talents of his generation while at Roma. His time with the club included memorable performances, devastating injuries, and ultimately, a controversial exit amid tensions with the board and coaching staff. The relationship between Zaniolo and Roma fans has remained strained, with sections of the club’s supporters continuing to view his departure as emblematic of larger issues with loyalty and professionalism.

In response to the accusations, Fiorentina issued their own statement within hours, defending their player and providing his version of events. “In light of what occurred after the Primavera Championship semi-final between Fiorentina and Roma, Fiorentina shares the following statements from player Nicolò Zaniolo: ‘After the match, I went down to the dressing room to congratulate Fiorentina’s boys, and then I went to Roma’s dressing room to greet and congratulate them on their season. But at a certain point, they started insulting me, and to avoid the situation escalating, I decided it was better to leave.’”

Fiorentina’s statement aims to reframe the narrative, painting Zaniolo as a professional who was attempting to extend a gesture of sportsmanship but found himself provoked and chose to walk away. It remains unclear whether there is any video footage of the incident or whether disciplinary bodies within the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) have launched an investigation. However, the strong and contrasting statements from both sides indicate that the situation could evolve quickly in the coming days.

This is not the first time Zaniolo has found himself in the headlines for off-pitch issues. In addition to previous tensions with club management and injuries that halted his momentum, the midfielder has occasionally drawn criticism for his attitude and interactions with fans and teammates. That said, nothing in his history suggests a pattern of violent behavior, which makes the current allegations all the more explosive.

Should the accusations be proven, the consequences for Zaniolo could be significant ranging from sporting sanctions to legal proceedings, depending on the severity and corroboration of the events. For now, the football world watches with interest as one of Italy’s most controversial talents once again becomes the center of attention this time, for all the wrong reasons.

Regardless of the outcome, the incident casts a shadow over what was supposed to be a celebration of youth football and development. Both clubs have emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and sportsmanship at all levels, and the hope is that clarity and accountability will be achieved soon.