Zaniolo’s Wage Row Keeps Him Out of Udinese Training

Nicolo Zaniolo is absent from Udinese’s pre‑season training after submitting a medical certificate. Reports indicate his ongoing salary dispute remains unresolved, leaving the club and the player at odds. The situation has cast doubt on his immediate availability for competitive fixtures.

During the Serie A fixture on April 11, 2026, Zaniolo faced strong challenges from AC Milan’s Davide Bartesaghi at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium in Milan. The encounter highlighted his role as a key player for Udinese despite the current off‑field turbulence.

Transfer Details and Financial Terms

During the 2025‑26 campaign Zaniolo joined Udinese on loan from Galatasaray, with an option to buy that has since been exercised. Juventus reportedly paid €5 million to secure his permanent transfer, while Galatasaray retained a 50 % sell‑on clause. The financial arrangement underscores the ambition Udinese placed on the Italian forward.

At the start of last summer Zaniolo accepted a substantial pay cut, dropping from an estimated €3 million net annual salary at Galatasaray to €1.2 million with Udinese. His agent argues that the agreed figures now fall short of the player’s market value following the permanent move. The club had promised to revisit personal terms, but those talks never materialised.

Salary Dispute and Recent Developments

Early this week speculation suggested a verbal agreement to raise Zaniolo’s wages to €1.8 million per season. However, updates from Corriere dello Sport indicate the deal has not been finalised and the player remains open to other options. The agent maintains that the lack of a new contract leaves Zaniolo feeling “bitterly disappointed.”

Despite the unsettled negotiations, Zaniolo continues to miss training sessions, citing medical reasons. His willingness to explore alternative clubs suggests the wage impasse could lead to a transfer before the window closes. The unresolved status also affects Udinese’s squad planning ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign.

Current Situation and Future Outlook

The player’s absence is officially explained by a medical certificate from his doctors, shielding him from immediate disciplinary action. Yet the underlying salary disagreement remains the core issue preventing his return. Observers believe that a swift resolution is essential for both parties to avoid further complications.

Zaniolo’s case mirrors other high‑profile salary negotiations in Italian football, where clubs and stars often clash over market‑aligned compensation. If a new agreement is not reached, Udinese may be forced to off‑load him, potentially recouping a portion of the €5 million investment. Fans and staff will watch closely as the drama unfolds over the summer.