21 October 2023 , 00:00
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Nicola Zaniolo has told Aston Villa he has NOT bet on football.
The Italy international has been asked about his involvement in the scandal but has denied any involvement in placing wagers on the game. The Birmingham club is prepared to take the 24-year-old attacking midfielder at face value and will not be taking any further action against him.
Villa issued a curt statement on their website confirming that they had spoken to Zaniolo. It said: “Aston Villa can confirm Nicolo Zaniolo is assisting the Italian Football Federation into alleged illegal betting activity. The player has also met with senior club officials at the club. Zaniolo is training as normal with the first-team squad and is available for section ahead of this weekend’s match with West Ham United.”
It is understood that when Zaniolo returned to Villa, he was quizzed by club sporting director Monchi over the charges that have rocked both Italian and English football. However, he has denied all involvement in betting on football. One theory that has been forwarded suggests that his name appeared on a sweep of other related apps and that the Italian authorities have had no option but to take the matter further.
Villa boss Unai Emery was not fielding questions on the topic at yesterday’s pre-match press conference. But it is understood that the player has trained as normal all week and will be in contention for a return to the Spaniard’s side for the Hammers’ visit. Zaniolo’s case differs to that of Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali who has admitted to betting on games involving his previous club AC Milan.
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The player’s agent suggested he had a gambling addiction and is facing a long ban if found guilty of the offence. But Villa have heard consistent messages both from Zaniolo and his representatives and are keeping their fingers crossed that the Italian authorities do not uncover evidence to the contrary.
Emery’s side will be looking to emulate a record that has stood for 40 years if they can defeat David Moyes ’s side tomorrow. Including matches going back to last season, they have chalked up ten successive victories at Villa Park - a feat that has not been achieved since 1983.
But Emery said: “We’re not thinking about what we’ve done. We’re thinking about what we can do. How we can improve and how we can win the next match. “Villa Park is special. It was special when we weren’t winning and it’s special now that we are comfortable with the fans.”