New Lazio boss Igor Tudor has shared his vision for the future of the club, shedding light on his tactics while explaining what he expects from his players. The former Croatian international was appointed to the role last week, taking over from Maurizio Sarri, who resigned after a series of poor results. Speaking at his first press conference as Biancocelesti boss, Tudor offered some insight on his plans for the team and what he hopes to achieve from the remainder of the season:
“Lazio is an important team, and one accepts because it’s Lazio. Even from the outside, I had the impression that the coach was crucial for the envisioned project. I prefer not to speak about individuals; I’d rather evaluate each one first. I choose based on what I see on the field. In the gym, there’s a phrase that resonates with me because it reflects the desire to prepare for victory, which leads to winning matches.”
On Immobile:
“The entire Lazio community loves Ciro; he’s a passionate individual who is eager to contribute. I appreciate offensive football, but there must always be balance.”
Can Lazio play with two strikers?
“I have great respect for Maurizio Sarri; he has made history with his style of play. That’s why I prefer not to comment on the past. Two strikers can be an option. Every coach must adapt to the characteristics of the group at their disposal.”
What will Lazio’s tactical approach be?
“We will see this as we go along; I need to evaluate. Clearly, a coach selects a player based on their own style of play. We’ll be careful not to rush assessments, but perhaps make adjustments in the summer. However, for now, the priority is these two months; there are points at stake and the cup.”
How will Kamada be reassessed?
“We’re not talking about a system of play, but rather a style. A coach brings new things; I wouldn’t like to talk about individuals; I need to assess them all. I am very attentive; I choose based on what I see. In the gym, there’s a phrase that resonates with me: it’s not the desire to win that determines, but the preparation to do so.”
Are you a strict disciplinarian?
“No, that’s a bad description. You have to be everything, give carrot and stick. In these four days here, I’ve never had to raise my voice. In Italy, there’s a great work culture. I’ve worked in many countries, but not like here. Then it’s normal that players need to be stimulated. Training sessions are demanding.”
What importance does this final part of the season hold, also in view of the future?
“I think everything is important; long-term planning doesn’t make sense. I believe in work; we want to start strong immediately. It won’t be easy so soon, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t wait long. We have exciting, tough matches ahead, just as I like it. In the end, the players make the difference; I see a strong team with a bit of everything. We can do well.”
How can a plan be initiated?
“The length of the contract doesn’t matter to me. If I don’t work well, I can go home tomorrow. I live in the present and for work; if I do well, I stay; otherwise, I move forward.”
Your relationship with Guendouzi?
“I don’t read newspapers. What happened in Marseille? I have an excellent relationship with Matteo; he’s fiery, always wants to play. Since you can’t play everyone, sometimes things happen on the field: nothing more, nothing less. I’m glad to have him back. He has significant experience; we’ll do things well together.”
Is fifth place possible?
“I can’t comment on that.”
Lazio in Italy is your big opportunity, and you will debut twice against Juventus, what do you think?
“My past counts for little; I need to prepare well, find motivation. I’m charged up for all matches; when you face teams like Juventus, there’s always grit. I hammer more with smaller teams, though. There are two beautiful challenges, and then there’s also the derby: exciting matches. I’m happy to be here!”
What characteristics do you expect from midfielders?
“Midfielders must have everything; they must be complete, possess tactical intelligence. Play vertically and horizontally.”
With Sarri, the team struggled to come back in games, while you often did in the past…
“There are many factors. I won’t comment on the previous coach. Maurizio is someone I greatly respect; he’s someone who made history at Napoli, winning in his career too.”
What’s the best aspect you can take from Sarri’s Lazio, and what needs improvement?
“There’s a great predisposition and work culture thanks to Sarri. Then there’s organization in the defensive line, the past work done well. I’ll leave something, adding more. I won’t go into details because it takes time and because they remain in the dressing room.”
What characteristics should attackers have?
“A coach adapts to the players because you can do the same things, but the result is never the same, maybe similar. Then it’s normal that a coach shouldn’t give up on his?”
A point on defence?
“We have good defenders. I don’t give importance to how they’re used to playing, but it matters that they’re strong. Maybe different timings will be needed, but if they’re strong, they all come out. I have many quality players.”
You’ve seen Italian football from inside and out, what’s the image of Italian football and Lazio from abroad?
“Italian football has always been very tactical. Here, there’s a great ability to adapt; abroad, there’s more pace. However, football is moving towards a more physical and fast-paced direction, but it’s not just this that leads to playing well; in Italy, there are other qualities.”
What impact have you had with the environment?
“Nice, very. I feel good here, and I can’t wait to start.”
Did you ever think Lazio was in your destiny?
“There was a possibility that I would come as a player. Then there’s Boksic, who did well here, and he’s a friend and compatriot of mine. This has always been a top team; it’s nice to arrive here.”
What’s your philosophy? Have you spoken with Boksic?
“Yes, he lives the team and the city of Rome. We’ll see my idea of football; I think a coach shouldn’t give up on anything in football; you have to try to give everything to a team. I like to win, not to entertain, but if I watch a game and get bored after a while, I change the channel. People are becoming more demanding; they want to see the team win, but if they don’t like it, it’s not good. For me, you shouldn’t win by chance; then it’s clear that if you’re inferior, you have to give up something. I stopped playing early and started coaching young. I have significant experience abroad, and this is important. Then having a work culture is essential. Having spent so many years abroad was important for choosing a path.”
Did you expect a call from Lazio? Did anyone talk to you about the derby?
“No, no one has talked about the derby. For me, all matches are the same, then it’s normal that the fact that I’m arriving shortly brings excitement, and I can’t wait to experience these emotions.”
Where do you see Luis Alberto?
“The important thing is that a player
