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Mourinho discusses Zaniolo transfer situation, Smalling’s future and more

Andy Mattioli

Jose Mourinho spoke to the media in a pre-match presser for the first time this year. The Portuguese manager had plenty to talks about including Nicolo Zaniolo’s transfer situation, Chris Smalling’s Roma stay and his own future at the capital club.

“Unfortunately, what I said after Spezia seems to be becoming reality. Looks like Zaniolo will stay with us after all,” said the Special One.

“Zaniolo has been saying he wants to leave for a month,” he revealed.

“He told me he doesn’t want to play for us anymore, that he doesn’t want to train with the team—so that’s why I say he will unfortunately stay with us after all.”

“I gave him the green light after Spezia. For me it’s a real shame when a footballer tells everyone he doesn’t want to wear the Roma shirt. The ideal situation is for the player to be happy.”

“Karsdorp? He can join us whenever he feels like it. He’s always training with the group. Some people made me and the club look bad, when the choice is really entirely his.”

“Smalling? The point is that he is playing very well, showing concentration and focused on Roma. The situation is wide open for now, I’ve never talked about it with him. My personal feeling is that he wants to stay, I say this because I know.”

“The club understands the importance of him. An agreement can be found. I think it’s easier for him to stay than to go away. Roma needs Chris and I don’t see Chris doing better anywhere else than Rome. An agreement will have to be reached.”

“Shomurodov? He’s a brilliant lad who deserves to play more. His departure makes us sad but it’s important that he plays more in the next 6 months.”

“The FFP situation is clear for everyone. It’s going to be difficult playing three competitions at once, but the group is fantastic and we’ll go all the way with these fantastic fans.”

“Wijnaldum? I don’t know when he’ll be back. With time he gets more and more comfortable with the team, he learns about new schemes. Perhaps he’ll need a week or ten more days to return with the rest of the team. There are no delays in his recovery.”

Match Center

MatchDay 24
9 Feb 12:30
Venezia
VEN
Roma