Dynamic, untouchable and selfless, but most importantly, back on the scoresheet. After 514 days without a goal, Nicolò Zaniolo got that goal he had been waiting for in Serie A and took centre stage in the home fixture against Atalanta with an impeccable performance, which included numerous stylish touches and brilliant plays for his team-mates. His performance during the match in Bergamo sees him named MVP of matchday 18 in Serie A according to Opta data and brings him back into favour with his fans and coach, who were waiting for the return of his dynamism in the middle of the park.

The 22-year-old turned his championship around with his impressive display, which was compounded nicely with four goals that also rekindled Roma's Champions League hopes. The Giallorossi fans were given two early Christmas presents: a 4-1 win over fourth-placed Atalanta and a return to scoring form for their number 22, who scored from his 34th shot of the current season.

In Roma's 4-1 win over Atalanta, Nicolò Zaniolo not only stood out for the goal he scored in the 27th minute, but he also led his team-mates in terms of defenders beaten (nine) and shots (three, two of which were on target), despite not being on the pitch for the full 90 minutes.

There were also two successful dribbles, two offensive recoveries, 18 duels (only less than Abraham) and a 78.6% pass rate in the opponent's half. These figures back up his performance at home to La Dea and make him the MVP of the day.  

His stats from the match against Atalanta

Minutes played: 69

Total shots: 3

Total duels: 18

Percentage of duels won: 33.3%