Lazio is preparing to challenge Juventus in Turin with the awareness of having to face a stronger team, but coach Gennaro Gattuso leaves no room for fear. In the press conference held at the Formello sports center, Gattuso underlined that, while maintaining a positive approach, the club must demonstrate courage and determination to achieve victory. With sixteen points won in the first six matchdays, the Biancoceleste team is in the running for their third consecutive success and aims not to let the ranking influence their playing mentality.
Gattuso highlighted the importance of a fearless mentality, recalling that Juventus is a "great team" with a versatile attack and strong set-piece potential. “We have to go to Turin with the awareness that we will face a stronger team, but I want to see a team that plays and responds blow for blow,” declared the coach. He also reiterated that Lazio must maintain an intensity and aggression similar to that of Juventus, but with a solid defensive block and the ability to exploit recovery areas.
Regarding the composition of the team, Gattuso confirmed the reinstatement of Pellegrini in the list and reiterated that the lineup will be determined by the value of the team, without giving advantages to individual players. He also spoke about the importance of reducing the 15-20 minute blackouts that the team had in some matches, such as against Monza and Milan, and of improving game reading and pitch management. “We don't have to have those 15- to 20-minute blackouts that we're having,” he said, underlining the need for better occupancy on the pitch.
On the topic of the players, Gattuso praised the growth of Belahyane, who showed great commitment and ability to push the team. He also spoke about Taylor, who according to the coach is giving his all in the possession and non-possession phases, helping to improve the chain of play. “He is a very important player for the team, both in possession and out of possession,” he said, highlighting his versatility and ability to create solutions.
Finally, Gattuso reiterated his desire to demonstrate the quality of his work as a coach, underlining that his experience is an advantage for Lazio. “I'm not a whiner, only one team wins and then you have to see the work done over the years,” he concluded, inviting the team to continue growing game after game. With the match against Juventus scheduled, Lazio aims to consolidate its position in the standings and demonstrate that, despite the points difference, it can compete with the strongest teams in the championship.