Lazio” data-scaytid=”1″>Lazio debut in the Coppa Italia against Bassano today and Stefano Pioli warns they are “built to qualify for Europe.”
Lazio debut in the Coppa Italia against Bassano today and Stefano Pioli warns they are “built to qualify for Europe.”
The Aquile play their first competitive match of the season by hosting Lega Pro side Bassano del Grappa in the Third Round of the Coppa Italia this evening.
“It was important to lay the foundations of our work this summer,” said the new Coach in his Press conference.
“Now we’ll see what we are able to do. We have important qualities and brought in players who are fundamental to my idea of football.
“My plan is to have dynamic central midfielders who adapt to the play on the wings of our attacking players. It also requires balance with elements who know how to dictate the tempo.
“The club put at my disposal the squad needed to achieve our objective, which is to qualify for Europe. Now I’ve evaluated the selection and we need to whittle down the squad, which the club and the interested players already know.”
Among the newcomers are striker Filip Djordjevic and defender Santiago Gentiletti.
“Djordjevic impressed and worked well, while my first impressions of Gentiletti are positive. We had been looking for a left-footed defender who was aggressive with the right character to lead the team.”
When asked who was first choice between Federico Marchetti and Etrit Berisha in goal, Pioli remained mysterious.
“I have made my choice, but nobody will ever know the line-up – not even the players. I take it one game at a time.”
The Coach was also questioned on Antonio Candreva’s future after a summer of being linked with Juventus.
“Considering his attitude, I don’t think there can be any doubts that he wants to stay at Lazio.”