New Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas opened up about his move to Rome and his willingness to learn as the third-choice shot stopper.
The 21-year-old Greek goalkeeper unexpectedly joined the Biancocelesti on transfer deadline day, arriving from OFI Crete FC in a deal worth around €1.3 million. He penned a five-year deal in the Italian capital.
Mandas is unlikely to feature much for Lazio this campaign, being the third-choice option behind Ivan Provedel and Luigi Sepe, but he could be promoted to second-string depending on his development this year.
Speaking at his unveiling press conference (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Mandas first introduced himself.
I wanted to thank you for the nice words and the welcome. I’m happy to be at a great club and I hope to continue like this.
He touched on his idols on the pitch.
I am happy to work with Provedel and Sepe, for the goalkeepers of the past I refer to Buffon.
The 21-year-old commented on his strengths and weaknesses.
I can play very well with my feet, I know I am at a big club at international level. We must try to win as many trophies and titles as possible.
The Greek goalkeeper revealed what he was told by coach Maurizio Sarri.
Both the coach and the goalkeeping coach told me to stay, this was very important for me. I want to repay the trust that was given to me.
Mandas was asked if his development would be slowed due to a lack of playing time.
I don’t think so. Every day I see that I improve more and more, every day I see continuous improvement with all the training we do. I’m here to give the best of myself.
He was also asked about other offers he received this summer.
Last year was very good for me, I had offers from Greece and other countries. When I heard about Lazio I didn’t consider other options. I wanted to be here right away to adapt and I want to give my best from the start.
Finally, Mandas gave his early impressions of life with Lazio.
The difference is that now that I’m inside I see that the club is even bigger than seeing it from the outside. Now that I’m here I will contribute to the growth of the team and my own personal growth.
