Lazio Midfielder Nicolo Rovella Hails Man City Star, Reveals Great Bond with Arsenal Man

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The Laziali

·3 settembre 2025

Lazio Midfielder Nicolo Rovella Hails Man City Star, Reveals Great Bond with Arsenal Man

Lazio midfielder Nicolo Rovella touched on several topics in a candid international while on international duty.

Nicolo Rovella Delighted with Italy Call-Up

Despite the growing competition for spots in Italy’s middle of the park, Gennaro Gattuso decided to call up the 23-year-old who had a mesmerising display against Hellas Verona on Sunday, orchestrating Lazio’s 4-0 victory over the Gialloblu. While chatting with Vivo Azzurro TV (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Rovella expressed his delight to be part of the national team.

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It’s always great to come here to Coverciano. We’re excited about the two upcoming matches [against Estonia and Israel]. We have to do well. The coach is fired up, he gives us energy and a sense of belonging. There’s little time to prepare for matches, so we must rely on enthusiasm.

Rovella on Friendship with Riccardo Calafiori & Daniel Maldini

The Genoa youth product identified Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori and Atalanta’s attacking midfielder Daniel Maldini as his closest friends in the national team.

Who have I bonded with the most? Calafiori and Maldini. We know each other off the pitch as well, so it’s definitely those two.

Rodri & Rodri

Rovella also revealed that he grew up idolising new Milan signing Luka Modric, but he considers Ballon d’Or winner and Manchester City lynchpin, Rodri, one of the finest players in the world at the moment.

Am I like Modric and Ambrosini? I don’t know, maybe because I’m blond. These are nice comparisons, as they’re two great players. Modric has been an idol since I was little; he’s a role model. I’ve always wanted to play my role since I was little, to be in the middle of the park and be able to roam all over the pitch. I think Rodri is one of the best in the world, I also really like Pedri.

Admiring Manuel Locatelli

The Lazio player also reserved words of praise for Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli, who joined him on the interview.

I’ve always liked his calmness when he has the ball at his feet. Manu has quality with both his right and left foot. I admire him a lot.

Rovella Opens up on Fatherhood

Finally, Rovella described the great emotions he experienced upon the birth of his daughter 10 days ago.

It was an incredible and powerful feeling. I’m so happy, we couldn’t wait to meet her and now we’re enjoying every moment together. I already miss her now that I’m here. For now, we’re getting enough sleep, at least I am!