Mario Gila has become a Galactico at Lazio, finding his Real Madrid-level dimension in Rome. The explosion of this bright star has been nothing short of remarkable. Corriere dello Sport detail how Gila is one of the few defenders capable of shifting the axis of matches, as demonstrated recently in Cagliari. Playing as a versatile defender, he was moved to the right by manager Baroni after Hysaj’s injury. From full-back, he transformed into a midfielder, successfully accomplishing what he couldn’t in Braga.
Gila’s impact on the field is undeniable. He initiated and inspired the action leading to Castellanos’ goal, opening up play from left to right. He consistently stands out for his gorilla-like marking and panther-like recoveries, for how he “eats up” balls and opponents, and for his play style that sees him pushing up to midfield, even at the risk of heart-stopping slaloms.
While Lazio hopes to keep Gila as long as possible, the real decisions will be made in June. If Gila leaves, it will be due to budget considerations and the inevitable pull of top clubs. His valuation will be high come summer, and it will be time to decide his future. He will remain at Lazio as long as possible, but his explosive form over the last year and a half makes him a hot property in the transfer market.
Defenders as complete and modern as Gila, and so young (just 24 years old), are rare. If Real Madrid decides to bring him back to Spain, Lazio may be powerless to stop it. However, Lazio president Lotito sets the price, and Real Madrid holds a 50% stake in the player’s value, meaning they would only need to pay half the asking price to buy him back.
Sporting director Fabiani met with Gila’s agent, Alejandro Camano, at the start of the transfer window. It was a routine meeting without negotiations. Lazio can’t force the issue, and Gila, focused on the present, benefits from postponing any decisions about his future. Fabiani and Camano will speak again in June, with moves depending on the market.
If no offers arrive, there’s always the possibility of renewal. Gila is under contract until 2027 but currently earns only 1 million euros per year plus bonuses, making him one of the lowest-paid players in the squad. He hasn’t made any demands, showing great maturity as he awaits a golden career and richer salaries.
Gila’s mission is clear: to bring Lazio to the Champions League. His journey at Lazio has been incredible, transforming from a backup defender to a star player. After a challenging period that saw him seeking psychological help, Gila’s trajectory has reversed dramatically – from a supposed flash in the pan to a true star of the team.
