Pedro: ‘I would like to win silverware at Lazio’ before retirement | OneFootball

Pedro looks back over his career and ‘never expected’ to have so much success for Spain, Barcelona and Chelsea, but wants to ‘win some silverware at Lazio.’

The veteran forward turned 37 in July and had been seemingly winding down his time on the field in recent years.

However, he has found a second wind in the Eternal City, so far this season contributing six goals and two assists in 12 games between Serie A and the Europa League.

The most recent was a last-gasp winner over FC Porto that maintained the Aquile’s perfect record in the Europa League, sitting top of the table.

“I am happy, I feel privileged and never expected to win 25 trophies in my career, including the Champions League, the World Cup and playing for two of the best teams in history, Spain and Barcelona,” Pedro told El Dia.

“It was also an honour to defend the colours of Chelsea and now I am happy to be at Lazio. Maybe I didn’t get that much recognition in the media, but I guess I’ll only be able to tell that after I’ve retired. I made many sacrifices, but when all this is over, I will keep with me the affection of the people. That counts for more.”

Pedro relishing experience at Lazio

epa11708475 SS Lazio’s Pedro Rodriguez in action during the UEFA Europa League soccer match between SS Lazio and FC Porto, in Rome, Italy, 07 November 2024. EPA-EFE/ETTORE FERRARI

His move to Lazio was somewhat surprising, as it came effectively for free crossing the city from Roma to Lazio in 2021.

“Obviously, I would like to win something with Lazio, because I won silverware in all of my seasons except the ones in Italy. I would like to do it here too because Lazio is an historic club, with a history similar to Chelsea or Barcelona.

“I realise it is more difficult here for a variety of factors, but we are doing well and are top of the Europa League, so we’ll see how far we go. Without doubt, I would like to retire having won another trophy.

“When the time comes, I will step aside with discretion and it will be difficult, but no more or less than what my other friends and teammates have done.”

It remains to be seen if that will be in 2025 or beyond, as there are reports Lazio are ready to offer Pedro a new contract.

“I do have a more important role here compared to last season. I am the oldest player in the squad, but I feel at ease close to young people, trying to teach them what I know. It’s not the same as past experiences, but I still feel as important and appreciated by everyone.

“When the moment comes, I will make a decision on my future, but right now I just want to enjoy the rest of the season.”

Pedro is already working on his legacy, drawing up plans to open up a museum of his career packed with memorabilia in his home of Tenerife.