Valentin Castellanos admitted he ‘didn’t think twice’ about accepting the move to Lazio and underlined his ambitions in the Italian capital.
The 24-year-old Argentinian striker was the Biancocelesti’s first signing of the summer transfer window, arriving from New York City FC in a deal worth around €20 million total.
Castellanos made his debut in Lazio’s 2-1 loss to Lecce and he’ll be keen to open his account in the Italian capital as soon as possible, wanting to prove himself to Maurizio Sarri and the fans.
Speaking at his unveiling press conference (via TMW), Castellanos first discussed his move to Lazio.
I am very happy to be here. I thank the director, all the fans and those who helped to make it possible for me to get here.
For me it is a great honour to wear this shirt, as soon as they told me about this opportunity I didn’t think twice.
I immediately understood that it would be a great opportunity to win.
He touched on the Argentine history at the Biancocelesti.
Lazio are a great team, I didn’t think twice about choosing this club also because I remember great Argentine players doing great things with this shirt. It’s a great responsibility for me.
The 24-year-old spoke about his relationship with Ciro Immobile.
I think I can learn a lot from Ciro, we have a good relationship, we talk a lot. We can grow together, I will wait for my moment.
Argentina would be a dream, being part of this club could help my eventual call-up.
Castellanos discussed what he brings to the Lazio squad and how many goals he could score this season.
I am a player of character, I understand the game with or without the ball. I know how to play in the field and I want to try to carve out my own space.
I can’t put a figure on goals, I’ll do my best to get the team the best results.
He commented on his work with Sarri and the squad.
I’ve only been here a short time and I’m starting to understand the game and the coach’s requests.
Step by step I’m always improving, I know I’m in a very physical league and I’ll soon fulfil the indications they give me. I want to score lots of goals and above all have fun.
He made a promise to the Biancocelesti fans.
As soon as I arrived, I realised how different the fans were compared to other clubs and this immediately made me fall in love. I’ve seen many guys wear my shirt or have the same haircut as me. I will fight on every ball, I will do everything not to let them down.
The 24-year-old spoke about his prior knowledge of Lazio.
I have always followed Serie A from Spain, I knew what I was choosing. I know what it means to play the derby and I’ll do everything I can to put the right concentration and intensity into it to win.
Finally, Castellanos discussed his Champions League motivation.
The poker at Real had a fundamental value, it gave me great self-esteem. I’ve already turned the page though, I want to think about the Champions League and I’m ready to challenge anyone.
I have great motivation for this new part of my career.
