Zaniolo cites personal reasons for leaving Italy camp

Nicolo Zaniolo has used social media to clarify that his departure from the Italy national team camp was driven exclusively by personal motives, while asking that his private life and privacy be honored: ‘Leaving Coverciano wasn’t easy, I will continue to work hard to earn the chance to wear the shirt again’.

Zaniolo: ‘Leaving Italy squad wasn’t easy, strictly for personal reasons’

Roberto Mancini had included Zaniolo in both squads he announced after returning as Italy national team head coach. Yet an injury kept the Udinese midfielder out of the initial camp, and he subsequently withdrew from the November squad on Tuesday for personal reasons.

UDINE, ITALY – AUGUST 22: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese makes his way onto the pitch before the Serie A fixture between Udinese Calcio and Como 1907 at Stadio Friuli on August 22, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/ Getty Images)

Zaniolo, who received his first Italy cap from Mancini before making his club debut with Roma, has not appeared for the Azzurri in more than two years.

He recently posted on Instagram to confirm that his exit from the most recent Italy camp was purely personal, but chose not to offer additional details.

“Leaving Coverciano wasn’t easy, but I took this decision strictly for personal reasons,” wrote Zaniolo in a story on his Instagram profile on Tuesday evening.  

“Wearing the Azzurro shirt is always a source of pride. I’d like to thank the boss, the staff and my teammates for their support. 

“I only ask that my private life is respected and that no credence be given to reconstructions of events that have nothing to do with me. 

“I hold this jersey close to my heart and I will continue to work hard every day to earn the chance to wear it again.”