Nicolo Casale underlined his tactical flexibility in defence and discussed the personal importance of his transfer to Lazio.
The 24-year-old Italian centre back joined the Roman club last month from Hellas Verona in a deal worth around €10 million total including add-ons. Casale has been a much requested player by Maurizio Sarri, who wanted to bring him to Rome in January before agreeing to wait until the summer.
Speaking at his unveiling (via LazioNews24), Casale first discussed his emotions during his last match for Hellas Verona against Lazio.
That last league game I played against Lazio, I knew there was this interest. But I went on the pitch without thinking about it.
In just a few months I found myself here and I’m very happy, I wanted it so much.
He commented on the personal importance of his move to the Biancocelesti.
It’s a very important transfer, it’s a big step for my career, two seasons ago I was playing in Serie B. I still have a lot to prove.
The 24-year-old touched on his role in the defence and his adaptability.
I’m a defensive wildcard because I have played all the roles in defence. I have also played full back, it’s not my role but I have adapted.
Now I have to adapt quickly, but with a great coach like Sarri it will be easy.
Casale spoke about the difficulty of adapting from a five-man defence to a four-man backline.
Going from a five-man defence to a four-man is different, especially if you come from a season in which you played in a totally different way.
With Dionisi I played with four, the goal is to adapt.
The Italian defender gave his thoughts on Lazio coach Sarri, who is entering his second year in Rome.
Sarri wanted me strongly, his presence pushed me a lot to come here.
Many defenders have grown with him in the past. He can help me improve in everything.
Finally, Casale discussed the welcome he received from the Lazio fans.
The fans are very warm, the welcome was beautiful. An indescribable emotion.
