Lazio coach Igor Tudor weighed in on the right path of Daniele De Rossi’s Roma, the emotions of the Derby della Capitale and the early stages of his Lazio project.
The Biancocelesti edged out a tense 1-0 win over Juventus in their first match under the Croatian coach, but fell in a tough 2-0 loss in the Coppa Italia rematch 72 hours later, giving Tudor some things to think about ahead of the ever-tense derby against the Giallorossi.
Tudor’s Lazio face a difficult obstacle in the derby as Roma have been one of the most in-form teams in Serie A under De Rossi, flying into a top four fight with Bologna. A Champions League finish looks out of grasp for the Biancocelesti, but they could still sneak into the Europa League.
Tudor on Lazio start, Derby della Capitale and De Rossi’s Roma
Speaking in a press conference via La Lazio Siamo Noi, Tudor first discussed his personal relationship with the Derby della Capitale.
“I have always liked these important matches. The other truth is also right, this is a game like any other. You can’t escape the feelings people have. It must give you something more without you losing your head, the derby should be experienced in this way, pleasant as well.
“Right antagonism and respect for opponents, of the game and of football. This for me is the real derby, always being right. To force the beauty of this sport.”
He commented on his expectations of his squad.
“As you know, with three games in seven days, there are few training sessions, we worked on a little something. We need to prepare in today’s training session as best as possible.
“I saw more positive things than negative things against Juventus. We are on the right path, interpreted in the best way by the players, I feel they’re very convinced in what we do.”
Tudor gave his thoughts on De Rossi’s work at Roma.
“I saw Roma’s matches, very interesting. Different from the one before (Mourinho, ed.), right idea for the players they have. There is quality in their game, he’s done a good job. I must admit that it’ll be very difficult, two teams with these characteristics, who want to have the ball.
“I hope people have fun, but then we win. I thank him for his words, I knew him as a player, he has always been someone with values. From the outside he seems like a good person, he has just started but it’s a good start.”
The Lazio coach spoke about the preparations for the Derby della Capitale.
“When you start working, you do it thinking about your football, then things add up little by little. It’s not like you start playing football and then after five days you change, the style must always be more or less the same.
“Systems have something to do with it up to a certain point. I’m always involved, I haven’t gone to the centre yet, I’m quite isolated. But I understand the importance of this game, I want to experience it in the right way. I can’t wait for the derby.”
Tudor was asked if he was satisfied with Lazio’s offensive play.
“I work to improve the team. I’m never satisfied with either phase. It’s too early to make judgments on anything. I like how the players are walking on this new path, but we’ll see game by game.
“I did two very particular games in terms of my preparation. There were players who did one or two training sessions, due to the national teams, and in any case they more or less recognized things that I wanted. Let’s take some time before making any judgements.”
He had high praise for midfielder Daichi Kamada.
“Despite not playing much this year, he has gone beyond his possibilities. He is flexible, has a good level from all points of view, I consider him a complete player.”
Finally, Tudor discussed his expectations for the derby and the conditions of Nicolo Rovella and Lorenzo Pellegrini.
“I don’t know what’ll happen, it’s very difficult to say. Regardless of the outcome we’ll move forward. I saw that both Rovella and Pellegrini are very excited, tomorrow we’ll definitely take them to the bench.”
Solo Lazio!