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Nicolo Zaniolo: Roma breakthrough has surprised me

Nicolo Zaniolo has pledged his commitment to Roma.

The midfielder, 20, admits he surprised himself with his success last season.

“I honestly didn't expect to have such an impact, given I came from the Primavera team and had a lot to learn," he told These Football Times.

“I also made my debut for the national team and it was a surprise, but I still have many objectives to reach and I have to keep working to reach them.

“Without Di Francesco, I wouldn't have made the breakthrough. He's great with young players and I owe him a lot, as I do all the people at Roma who supported me.

“It's always important to keep your feet on the ground. I have a family behind me who help me do that, who understand the dynamics of football and ensure I always give my best.

“Beyond that, the only way to manage expectations is through myself. I have to work hard, trying not to listen to what the others are saying, whether they are compliments or criticisms.

“I'm not Totti, but I hope to be as good as him one day. The only way I can do that is to work hard every day in training, feel the Coach's confidence and then bring all of that on to the pitch, in front of the fans. After that, I'll let them decide.

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