Igor Tudor says it’s up to him to get his ideas across as quickly as possible after taking over as Lazio head coach. The former Marseille and Hellas Verona coach was confirmed as Maurizio Sarri’s successor last week, and has given his first interview to the clubs official TV channel:
“Why did I accept this challenge? There are no motivations, Lazio is a prestigious club, coveted by everyone, a club that any coach would want to lead. There are strong players, a special fanbase. Being part of this club and this city, it’s all intertwined,” Tudor said.
On his first impression of the facilities: “The facilities are beautiful, from the outside, I always had the feeling that this was a club where you can do well, in a simple way, like a family. This club always has an important role.”
“What can Lazio give in the final stretch of the season? We’ll see, for me, always a lot. We need to get to work because it’s not easy to come after a coach with a certain style of play; it will take an adjustment period. But there is a healthy group that applies itself, and it’s up to me to transmit the ideas I have in mind. I think we’ll do it quickly.”
On the level of the defense: “Would I replace them? Well, I was also a midfielder or full-back under Lippi. Defense is not just about defenders; the whole team has to contribute in both phases. That’s the goal, the spirit, and the willingness to sacrifice must never be lacking.”
About his relationship with Guendouzi and Casale, whom he had previously coached at Marseille and Verona: “I haven’t seen Mateo yet, but he’s a winner, a player with a crazy mentality, which is necessary. Nicolò is a golden boy and a strong player; he will definitely be useful.”
On what he wants to see on the field: “Modern football is heading towards attacking with many players, scoring goals, not being boring. I’ll try, I’ll do some things better, some not, there will always be room for improvement. I’m someone who never settles; you always have to push.”
