Unai Emery has discussed where he sees Nicolo Zaniolo lining up in future when Jacob Ramsey returns from his struggles with his injury.
Since joining Aston Villa from Galatasaray on loan in the summer, Zaniolo has made a positive impression with fans.
Despite failing to register a goal or an assist, the Italian has had a positive impact on the team since his introduction.
The Villains have had an excellent start to the season, seeing them sit in fifth place in the Premier League.
This has been despite a raft of injuries which have seen players out for many months. Emi Buendia and Tyrone Mings are out for the season and Alex Moreno has been out since May.
What has Unai Emery said about Nicolo Zaniolo?
Zaniolo’s loan was a requirement following injury to two attacking midfielders. With Buendia and Ramsey out, Villa needed some squad depth.
Villa fans and his manager have been pleased with him so far. Speaking to The Athletic, Emery began by saying: “Zaniolo played very well today.”
Questions have been asked about where the Italian will play once the Villa academy product Ramsey returns.
The Villa boss envisages him playing further forward and providing competition for Moussa Diaby.
When asked about the attacker, he said: “His adaptation is going well. It’s not easy to introduce him in this starting XI and on this level.
“I am practising every day on the training ground to get him to the same level.”
Emery demands a lot from his players and it can take time to understand what he wants, Zaniolo is no different.
Where does Ramsey fit back in?
Last season, the England youth international was one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League.
He played a massive part as the Villains achieved European qualification for the first time since 2010, but has so far missed out.
When he returns from injury, coming back to fill his role on the left of a midfield could take Villa even further up the league.
Despite Zaniolo’s positive performances, Ramsey will likely reprise his role in the starting eleven.
The Italian’s future is set to be further forward which could see him register more goals and assists than he is right now.
Villa fans are excited for Ramsey’s return and hopefully, Emery can get the best out of both him and Zaniolo.
