Lazio president Claudio Lotito did not seem keen to discuss Paulo Dybala’s free transfer to Roma, suggesting that he ‘doesn’t sell dreams but solid realities.’
Seemingly thousands of Giallorossi fans turned up in the streets of Rome earlier this week to welcome the Argentinian forward to the club and city following his free transfer earlier this month. Dybala has signed a three-year contract with Roma and he’s keen to prove his quality after a fairly anonymous departure from Juventus.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Federal Council meeting today, Lotito first discussed Lazio’s transfer market strategy and the Francesco Acerbi situation.
“We’ve set up the team following the coach’s suggestions. We won’t make predictions about the season, but Lazio are among the teams that have spent the most on the market despite the economic restrictions.
“Last year we bought six players, now we are up to 14. There is no Acerbi issue. He is a decent guy, serious and reliable. These are just tactical choices, I don’t think it’s a problem of conflict with the fans. This only fuels situations of incompatibility that don’t exist.”
He then gave his thoughts on the Biancocelesti’s intercity rivals Roma, their acquisition of Dybala and his subsequent presentation in the city.
“I didn’t see Dybala’s presentation in Rome and in any case his arrival didn’t affect me at all, I don’t sell dreams but solid realities. We don’t collect Panini stickers, we don’t care.
“Lotito brings results. In fact, after Juventus we’re the club that have won the most in recent years. However, the Lazio fan always has to say something, even after winning a trophy.
“Whether Roma’s market is headline news, I don’t know. Lazio, however, have signed six players, and maybe we’ll do a few more incoming deals too.
“I don’t do things for aesthetic reasons, I am not a fan-president, but a president-fan and I have to create the conditions for the club to have an increasingly strong future.”
Expectations for Dybala at Roma are fairly high following his arrival, with many hoping the 28-year-old will prove his doubters wrong under Mourinho.
The Giallorossi are building a seemingly strong project under the Portuguese coach, and quietly Lazio are doing the same with Maurizio Sarri, setting up exciting Derby della Capitale clashes in the upcoming season.
Never a fan of this guy, but he was spot-on. Dybala’s history with injury may be a problem for Roma, plus he’s overrated. Even Xavi considers him overrated.