Juan Sebastian Veron, the former midfield maestro who helped Lazio win the Scudetto in 2000, is enthusiastic about the current Lazio team. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport from La Plata, Argentina, Veron shared his thoughts on Lazio’s chances of winning the championship this season.
“Winning the championship is a possibility. I like Lazio, they play well, so why not?” Veron said. He noted the great balance in the league this year, with many teams clustered at the top of the table within a few points of each other. “I don’t see any reason why they shouldn’t think they can win the title,” he added.
When asked about Lazio’s seemingly stronger opponents, Veron acknowledged that teams like Inter, Napoli, Milan, Juventus, and Atalanta might have more technical prowess. However, he emphasized, “This Lazio enjoys playing football, and I wouldn’t overlook this detail.”
Veron praised the team’s enthusiasm under new coach Baroni: “The boys transmit enthusiasm. Considering it’s the coach’s first season, this wasn’t a given. Lazio is a team that loves to keep possession of the ball, likes to dominate the opponent, and attacks even when already ahead. There seems to be a lightness in the environment. And lightness, unlike pressure, is an ally when fighting for big goals.”
He particularly admired Lazio’s clear, fast, and sometimes essential style of play, as well as the team’s unity. “I perceive an idea of positivity that, perhaps, is not found in other places,” Veron noted.
Regarding Baroni’s contribution, Veron said, “Defensive organization, midfield order, desire to have fun with the ball at their feet. And then, he has transmitted that spirit of sacrifice necessary to complete a feat.”
Veron singled out Rovella as a player who has impressed him: “Young, dynamic, with an excellent vision of the game.” He also praised Guendouzi for his strength in carrying the ball forward and linking up with attackers.
On Zaccagni, Veron commented, “He has talent, he just needs to believe more in his own abilities.” He also mentioned Pedro, Dia, and Castellanos as key attacking players.
Veron admitted he hadn’t expected such a strong performance from Lazio at the start of the season, crediting Baroni for giving the group a precise identity. However, he cautioned, “Now, I recommend: they must proceed with their headlights off.”
Acknowledging the psychological challenge of maintaining second place, Veron emphasized Baroni’s role in managing this. He highlighted Lazio’s impressive run of six consecutive victories and their perfect record in the Europa League, stating, “This is a path that gives confidence to all the players.”
