Nuno Tavares discusses Sarri, injuries, and personal growth at Lazio
Nuno Tavares has opened up about his first season at Lazio, his relationship with coach Maurizio Sarri, and the ongoing management of his fitness. The Portuguese left-back, speaking in an interview released by Serie A's official channels, expressed satisfaction with his development under the veteran manager but hinted at internal disagreements over his injury management.
Tavares joined Lazio last summer on a season-long loan from Arsenal, with the Italian club holding an option to make the move permanent. The 23-year-old has made 22 appearances across all competitions this campaign, contributing two goals and two assists. His season, however, has been punctuated by muscular issues, limiting his availability and consistency in a key position for Sarri's side.
Reflecting on his adaptation, Tavares suggested his attacking output has been tempered by the team's tactical demands. "Perhaps I am not the same Nuno we saw last season in terms of offensive projection," he said. "But now we play a more tactical game, with more pauses because we are more tactically attentive. It is a way to grow as a team and we are playing good football." He declined to set specific assist targets, simply stating he wanted to provide "many."
The defender was unequivocal in his praise for Sarri, under whose system he has been deployed primarily as a wing-back. "It is always a positive thing to play for a coach who has won so many titles with different clubs," Tavares stated. "I always want to work with the best and I am happy to work with him. I want a season of growth, with greater consistency in terms of results."
On the persistent topic of his injuries, Tavares offered a revealing perspective, indicating a potential disconnect between his own physical assessment and the club's decisions. "I know my body, but sometimes you cannot make certain choices alone," he explained. "I listen to my body carefully, I know what I can do and when I cannot perform. The problem is that sometimes not all the people involved in the choices think the same way. The most important thing for me is to read what my body says. I know when I have to stop." This comment will fuel discussion around Lazio's medical and coaching staff's handling of player fitness, a recurring theme in Rome this season.
Beyond football, Tavares shared details of his unique background, having balanced a serious musical education with his early football training. Born in Portugal to Cape Verdean parents, he trained as a cellist in a conservatoire before focusing fully on sport. "My passion for music is as great as that for football," he said, noting the discipline from his musical studies still influences him.
For Lazio, securing Tavares's services on a permanent basis remains a decision for the summer, likely contingent on the fee agreed with Arsenal and an assessment of his durability. His comments suggest a player focused on growth and integration into Sarri's philosophy, albeit one navigating the complex balance between personal fitness management and team demands. His future in the Italian capital may hinge on finding a resolution to that very issue.
