Nuno Tavares explained why he decided to make the jump and sign for Lazio, having joined on a loan deal from Arsenal.
The 24-year-old Portuguese full back signed for the Biancocelesti on a €1m loan deal with a €6m conditional obligation to buy clause attached, linked to various conditions. He has agreed to a five-year contract worth circa €2m net per season, rising by €200,000 per year.
Tavares is one of many players to sign for Lazio in recent weeks, with the club kickstarting a new project under Marco Baroni. Other new arrivals include Salernitana’s Loum Tchaouna, Hellas Verona’s Tijjani Noslin and Hatayspor’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Gaetano Castrovilli could also join on a free transfer.
Tavares on Lazio move
Speaking to Lazio Style Channel via La Lazio Siamo Noi, Tavares first discussed the reasons why he decided to join Lazio on loan from Arsenal.
“I feel very good. I immediately understood that this is a great club, I’m quite surprised at how much I already feel at home. I’m at a great club that fights for important goals and this is the most important thing. I’m here to help the team to achieve our goals.
“I wanted a new project in my career, I discussed it with my family and my agents. We evaluated the various offers and decided to accept this new challenge. I watched several Lazio matches after Matteo (Guendouzi, ed.) had arrived.
“Then, even more so when Tudor arrived, having seen the Coppa Italia match against Juventus, the derby and two Champions League matches, not just running chasing the ball. The best way to improve is by playing good football.”
He commented on his relationship with teammate Matteo Guendouzi.
“I’ve known Guendouzi since my time at Marseille, we had never met at Arsenal. We established an excellent relationship and we stayed in touch. I spoke with him about Lazio, and it was easier for me to accept this team.”
Tavares spoke about some of his passions outside of football.
“I have been playing the cello since I was in school. I watch the NBA and I like to dress like them. I pay a lot of attention to clothing, I like to be fashionable. My favourite basketball player is Lebron James, ‘The King’ is the number one.”
Finally, Tavares gave his thoughts on the Lazio fans.
“I’m very happy to be in this club, I immediately understood that the fans are fantastic, they transmit great passion to the team. They can expect me to give everything to help Lazio win.”