Barcelona Youth Product Reveals: “I Nearly Returned to Lazio This Summer”

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The Laziali

·17 settembre 2024

Barcelona Youth Product Reveals: “I Nearly Returned to Lazio This Summer”

Former Lazio attacker Keita Balde claims he was on the cusp of making his return to the Italian capital this summer.

The Senegal international started his career at Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy before signing for the Biancocelesti in 2011. After spending two years with the Primavera side, he earned a promotion to the senior squad and became an instant hit. Lazio eventually cashed in on his services, selling him to Monaco for €30 million in the summer of 2017.

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The versatile forward then had stints at Inter Milan, Cagliari, Sampdoria and Spartak Moscow. This summer, he joined Turkish club Sivasspor on a free transfer. But in a recent interview with Radio Laziale (via LazioNews24), the 29-year-old insists he could have ended up at Formello.

I nearly rejoined Lazio this summer. My return was closer than ever before. But in the end, we all know football, the deal didn’t materialize. I would have been very happy but I would never close this door because it’s the team of my heart.

Keita Balde Explains Why He Felt Best at Lazio

Balde admits he lacked the consistency to reach the highest levels while jumping from one club to another.

I lacked the consistency that I found at Lazio. I went to Monaco, and a year later I joined Inter. I didn’t have the chance to have continuity. Some injuries happened at the wrong times, especially at Inter, which hindered my momentum.

The striker insists he didn’t enjoy the family environment he felt at Lazio in his other ventures.

I have never found the family atmosphere at Lazio anywhere else. Given my character, I need a club like Lazio to perform at my best. I have always been following the Biancocelesti, it’s a passion I carry on with me.