Ciro Immobile opened up about his relationship with Sinisa Mihajlovic, how it felt to become a Lazio legend and why he’s remained so loyal to the club.
The 33-year-old Italian striker has grown into an important talisman for the Biancocelesti since his arrival in 2016 and is now the face of Maurizio Sarri’s squad, being a true leader on and off the pitch.
Despite a frustrating hamstring injury, Immobile has continued to be a key player for Lazio this season, scoring nine goals and providing three assists across 18 Serie A appearances.
Speaking to Lazio’s media department (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Immobile first discussed Silvio Piola’s goal record in Serie A.
Piola’s 83 goals to go. Those are crazy numbers of his. For me it’s nice to see this ranking.
He touched on his relationship with former Bologna coach Mihajlovic.
I’m pleased to remember Mihajlovic, we sometimes celebrated together. Our families were close because there were so many of them. It’s nice to remember him today more than ever.
The 33-year-old commented on how it felt to be a part of Lazio’s history forever.
This sport leaves you with emotions, memories and sensations. We at Lazio have an important history, we had many players who did great things, now we remember them.
When I retire, hopefully as late as possible, they’ll remember me. Apart from a few rumours, I’ve never received criticism here from the real fans.
Immobile spoke about the emotions of the Derby della Capitale.
I understand the fans. The derby is important for us because it is important for them. The fans fundamentally care that we have to be ‘dirty’, we’ve shown it in so many games that we’re good to watch, but when there’s something to fight for, we know how to do it too.
He gave his thoughts on the Biancocelesti’s season so far.
We have been clear-headed in recent weeks. We told ourselves not to give up after the defeat against Atalanta, while today we told ourselves not to get excited after the success at Salerno. The table is tight.
Finally, Immobile explained his loyalty to Lazio.
The attachment to the shirt that there is in this club is a strength and a starting point on which to build a strong and important base. Today in football you easily change teams, our strength is that we are a family.
Those who are comfortable here are unlikely to want to leave. If someone wants to it is because he thinks his cycle is over, no hard feelings. With the new coach a cycle is over and there are new motivations.
