Ex-Arsenal Man Set to Stay at Lazio After Discussion With Gattuso | OneFootball

Incoming Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso reportedly had a positive meeting with Nuno Tavares, who now appears destined to stay in the Italian capital.

The Background

The Calabrian manager has agreed to replace Maurizio Sarri, who has already left the club and signed for Atalanta. Gattuso is expected at Formello this week (potentially on Thursday) to sign his contract with Lazio, but he has already been active over the past week or so, contacting the players to understand where each of them stands.

Nuno Tavares Agrees to Stay at Lazio After Gennaro Gattuso Talks

According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Gattuso will be able to count on Tavares next season. The 48-year-old called the Portuguese international, and the two men had an in-depth conversation. The Italian manager is said to be an admirer of the 26-year-old, who, barring any market twists, will remain at Lazio beyond the summer.

Luca Pellegrini, the Odd Man Out?

The Biancocelesti have already signed a new left-back in Alfonso Pedraza, who will complete a free transfer once his contract with Villarreal expires at the end of the season. Therefore, Luca Pellegrini will likely become surplus to requirements and might end up joining Como, who are said to be interested in his services.

Tavares’ Career Path & Unhappy Arsenal Stint

Tavares is a Benfica youth product who was poached by Arsenal in 2021, but found himself on the periphery in North London. The full-back spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Olympique Marseille, playing under Igor Tudor. The Ligue 1 club later appointed Gattuso as their head coach, but the player had already returned to England, representing Nottingham Forest during the 2023/24 campaign.

Tavares’ Ups & Downs at Lazio

Lazio signed Tavares in the summer of 2024 for only €6 million, but Arsenal have retained 35% sell-on fee. The Lisbon native enjoyed a stellar start to his Italian experience before being hampered by injuries. This season, he struggled to adapt to Maurizio Sarri’s playing style, but he regained his starting berth after showcasing improved defensive skills.