Lucas Leiva gave his thoughts on some of the Brazilians in the Lazio squad and how far Maurizio Sarri’s side can go this season.
The 35-year-old Brazilian midfielder left the Biancocelesti after five years in the summer, joining Gremio on a free transfer. Leiva scored four goals and provided 12 assists in 198 games for Lazio, being a rock in front of the defence. His role has been inherited by Danilo Cataldi.
Speaking to Lazio Style Radio (via LazioNews24), Leiva first discussed his return to Formello and the work of various members of the Lazio squad this season.
It’s always a pleasure to return to Formello, it was my home for five years, I left many friends here.
Lazio are having a great season, if they recover all the players who are out, they’ll have a great end to the season.
Felipe Anderson is doing well, this year more than last, the trust of coach Sarri helps him to grow.
Playing in the team of the heart is important, it happened to myself this year when I returned to Gremio. Cataldi represents just that, he always puts that extra something.
He gave his thoughts on the early stages of Marcos Antonio’s life with Lazio.
Marcos Antonio is a young guy, the Biancocelesti environment is demanding. He has different characteristics to me but there’s no need to make comparisons, he has to keep working calmly, he’ll be an important player in the future.
The 35-year-old spoke about Lazio’s chances in the fight for a top four finish.
The league is open, they’re all there. Lazio can beat anyone, we’ve had a few missteps in Europe but this team has what it takes to reach the Champions League.
He looked ahead to the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.
It will be a different World Cup and unfortunately many important players will not be there due to injuries.
I hope Brazil wins because they are always favourites. Defensively they are very strong so hopefully they can get this important trophy.
Finally, Leiva discussed his personal bond with Lazio.
My sons are linked to Lazio and the city of Rome. When I told my son Pedro that he was coming to Rome, he cried because he has many friends here. Pedro is still in love with Lazio.
Lazio’s defeat to Juventus leaves them 4th in the league table after 15 games, three points behind second place Milan.
