Lucas Leiva wrote a heartfelt goodbye to Lazio fans following his final appearance for the club in the 3-3 draw with Hellas Verona.
The 35-year-old Brazilian midfielder is leaving the Roman club on a free transfer after five years of service, coming to the end of an incredible cycle in the Italian capital. Leiva quickly became a fan favourite due to his mature and consistent performances and his conviction on the pitch.
Writing on his Instagram page after the draw with Hellas Verona, Leiva thanked everyone in the Lazio world and expressed his love for the club.
Today was my last game in this shirt, which I have sweated in and honoured for 198 games. We won three titles together. Five beautiful years.
I want to thank my family for always being present and ready to give me the necessary peace of mind so that I can dedicate myself to my work and my passion.
To my fellow ‘fighters’ I want to say THANK YOU for welcoming me in a unique way from day one. Thanks to all the coaches, employees and collaborators who always give their best to help us.
Thanks to coach Inzaghi for trusting me at a very delicate time in my career, with you I managed to have my best years as a professional. Thanks to coach Sarri for the opportunity to learn new things at the age of 35.
Thank you to every member of the technical staff, always willing to help me, giving me the right tools and advice I needed in these five years.
I leave with the conviction that I gave my all for this shirt, I have learned to love the city of Rome and my/our Lazio and I will never forget all the friends I have met here.
Now with serenity I’ll decide my future. I love you and always Forza Lazio!
Leiva joined Lazio in the summer of 2017 in a deal worth around €5.7 million from Liverpool. In his five years in Rome, the Brazilian midfielder made 197 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing 12 assists. He helped the side win one Coppa Italia and two Supercoppa Italiana.
The former Liverpool man is now expected to return to Brazil, with a possible return to Gremio on the cards.
