Romagnoli: ‘It’s Always Been My Dream to Join Lazio’

Alessio Romagnoli noted that he’s always dreamed of signing for Lazio as he looked ahead to the upcoming season.

The 27-year-old Italian centre back left Milan last month after his contract expired, allowing him to join Lazio on a free transfer. Romagnoli signed a five-year deal with the club, finally joining the team he’s supported since he was a boy. The fans have been incredibly excited to welcome home their new hero and he’s set to receive an incredible reception at the Stadio Olimpico. 

Speaking at his unveiling (via La Lazio Siamo Noi) earlier today, Romagnoli first discussed how it felt to finally sign for Lazio last month.

I always hoped for it, we’ve been talking about this opportunity for a long time. Both parties have always wanted it. 

I thank the sporting director and president for this opportunity, it has always been my dream and I was sure I would come here. My family supported me through everything, they were as happy as I was.

He spoke about some of the differences between Stefano Pioli and Maurizio Sarri.

I’m much better than I was, although still missing a little something. Sarri’s game is more tactical, Pioli’s was different, it was more one-on-one in large areas of the pitch. This game suits me more and I like it better.

The Italian centre back touched on how it felt to receive such a welcome from the fans.

It was exciting, it was very nice to receive such a welcome. They are always here to support the team, now it will be our turn, my turn to reciprocate all this affection.

Romagnoli discussed his and the team’s goals ahead of the upcoming season.

The team’s goal is to qualify for the Champions League because we’re strong, a good squad. I have always told Tare over the years that this is a strong team. 

For me it will be important to play more than last year. Despite having had several problems, I have to try to give my best and play as many games as possible. The main goal, I repeat, is as a team and that’s to get to the Champions League.

He spoke about his shirt number 13, which was also worn by Lazio legend Alessandro Nesta.

The comparison with Nesta cannot be made because every player is different. He was my idol and that of many players. 

I think it is wrong to make comparisons with him. Emotion is a lot because it’s something I’ve always dreamed of, it’s always exciting to come here.

The Italian defender commented on if he’s spoken to Nesta recently.

I have met Nesta but I haven’t talked to him lately. I saw him last year in Milanello when he came to visit us but I haven’t talked to him. It is the reverse path from him, after so many years, a Lazio player returns to his team. 

In my opinion it is a very important step in my life, an important step because it means proving your level, doing something important with this club. In my opinion even last year they could fight for the Champions League, it was so close. 

When they played against us it was always difficult, we won all the games but they were always a very strong team. This year we are even stronger.

Finally, Romagnoli implored the fans to purchase season tickets ahead of the new season.

You know how important the fans are for us. We ask you to come because only together can we achieve great goals.

Tags Alessio Romagnoli Biancocelesti Italy Lazio Romagnoli Rome Serie A