Nuno Tavares Causes Stir After Alleged Argument with Lazio Teammate in Rome Derby

Lazio full-back Nuno Tavares angrily reacted to his teammates’ scolding after committing a costly blunder in the Derby della Capitale against Roma.

Lazio Suffer Derby Defeat

The Biancocelesti had the bulk of the chances, but they ended up suffering an agonizing defeat at the hands of their most hated rivals. Lorenzo Pellegrini’s goal was the only difference between the two sides, and it stemmed from Tavares’ mistake, as he tried to dribble his way past Devyne Rensch inside his own box rather than passing the ball.

Nuno Tavares Argued with Lazio Teammates

Naturally, the left-back’s teammates were upset by his ill-advised action. As La Lazio Siamo Noi tells it, Lazio captain Mattia Zaccagni immediately asked Tavares, “What are you doing?”, in a dismissive tone, which sparked an unceremonious response from the Portuguese.

The report adds that Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli were seen pointing towards Ivan Provedel, suggesting that Tavares should have simply passed the ball to the goalkeeper, who was also seen reproaching the former Arsenal man immediately after conceding the goal.

Was There a Locker-Room Argument After Tavares’ Mistake?

The source reveals that the debate continued in the locker room at the interval, with Tavares eventually reaching his boiling point. Afterwards, the player wasn’t seen again, as Maurizio Sarri decided to replace him with Luca Pellegrini.

While some suggested that the 25-year-old joined his family in the stands during the second half, others believe he remained in the dressing room for the remainder of the contest.

Angelo Fabiani Clarifies Tavares Debacle

In any case, Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani ensured that Tavares never left the stadium, so the club won’t be taking any disciplinary measures in this regard, as he told Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi)

Nuno didn’t leave the stadium. He was obviously angry and disappointed, like everyone else. There will be no fine for a technical error that anyone can make on the pitch.