Zaniolo joined Aston Villa on a loan deal with a purchase option from Galatasaray last summer. He moved to Turkey from Roma in February, where he scored five goals in 12 games for Gala.

“I didn’t expect [to join Aston Villa] because I was part of the project at Galatasaray,” the Italy international explained to Sky Sport Italia.

“However, from the moment Monchi, my former Roma director, called me, I jumped at the chance because it was a fantastic opportunity to play in the Premier League, in a fantastic team, and show what I was capable of.” As soon as he called me, Galatasaray and I realized the opportunity was too good to pass up, so I came here.”

Monchi had already brought Zaniolo from Inter to Roma in 2018, as part of a player-plus-cash transaction for Radja Nainggolan.

“Monchi was the first true director I worked with in my professional career.” “He brought me from youth football to professional football, so I owe him gratitude,” Zaniolo added.

“He wanted me at Roma and everyone knows what I achieved there.”

The Spanish director is collaborating closely with coach Unai Emery, who impressed Zaniolo right away.

“I was overjoyed when Emery said he liked me. “He is one of the best coaches, and as soon as I arrived, we talked about the group ad about football,” the Italy international stated.

Zaniolo had never left Italy before his move to Galatasaray and feels his time in Turkey did change him.

“Yes, it may sound like a cliché, but [in Rome] I was staying home with people I knew and my family. I’ve grown personally and in footballing terms, it was a life experience that will be useful in the future,” he argued.

Zaniolo has made five appearances across all competitions with Aston Villa this season and started in last week’s 1-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, completing more dribbles than any other player during the game.

By the look of it, Nico seems to be enjoying his time in England.

“Training facilities are a little more advanced than in Italy. Football is very different here. It’s more tactical in Italy, while here it’s more physical, with more one vs. one, it’s different. I like both, but I think the Premier League suits me better.”