While preparing to host his beloved club in a Serie A contest, Monza coach Alessandro Nesta insists he has always remained a Lazio supporter.
Alessandro Nesta Describes Special Rapport With Lazio
The 48-year-old joined the Biancocelesti as a mere child and climbed his way through the ranks to become a stalwart and a club icon. He eventually had to part ways with his childhood club in 2002, as Lazio had to sell him to Milan amidst their financial troubles. Nevertheless, Nesta’s bond with the Aquile remained unscathed as he explained in his pre-match press conference (via La Lazio Siamo Noi).
I was at Milan for ten years, but I had always been considered a Lazio player who went north. Lazio is my family; I used to go to the stadium with my father and my brother and join the Curva Nord.
I started playing there at the club when I was eight. For me, it is always something special. On Monday, I was at the Olimpico [for Lazio’s clash against Cagliari], it had been a long time since I was there. It was beautiful.
Demanding Fanbase
The 2006 World Cup winner noted that the Romans are demanding by nature, but insists that Lazio have been doing well.
People can criticize as much as they want, but the facts say that Lazio have always had good teams. They were even close to competing for the Scudetto at times. But we Romans are often very critical and demanding.
Rome is a great city where everything is amplified, even in football, but I think Lazio have had a good path in recent years. The club brought relatively unkown players and made them stars.
Praise for Nicolo Rovella
Finally, Nesta reserved special praise for Nicolo Rovella who has now earned his maiden call-up for the Italian senior team.
I watched Rovella live the other day. He really is a strong, dynamic and technical player who anchors the play while showcasing his strong character. He deserves the call-up for the national team.