Frattesi Opens up on His Lazio Childhood, Rapport With Inter Milan Fans & Gattuso Reunion

Frattesi Opens up on His Lazio Childhood, Rapport With Inter Milan Fans & Gattuso Reunion

After completing his transfer to Lazio, Davide Frattesi explained what this return means for him and his family.

The Background

The 26-year-old joined the Biancocelesti on loan from Inter Milan for €5 million with an option to buy for €10 million, plus a 50% sell-on fee in favor of the Serie A champions. The Italian international has thus returned to his original club 12 years after his departure.

Davide Frattesi Delighted with Lazio Return

While the two clubs managed to finalize the move on Friday evening, the deal appeared to be in jeopardy earlier in the day when the Lega Serie A blocked the original formula. In his first interview with the club’s official channel (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Frattesi admitted that the anticipation was nerve-wracking, while expressing his delight to be back at Formello.

It was an odyssey! On days like this, the anticipation makes you want it even more. Even though it is tiring. When I arrived, I recognised all the roads I used to take when I trained at La Giustiniana. I’m coming back with greater maturity. At 26, I have to take on important responsibilities.Frattesi Remains Fond of Inter Milan Fans, Reveals Lazio Family Ties

After making his return to the capital, Frattesi felt the affection of his fellow Romans, who welcomed him back home. The player also took the opportunity to mention his strong bond with the Inter Milan fanbase.

Yes, I needed to feel the fans’s warmth. I had the same relationship with the fans at Inter. We always got along, with ups and downs, but we got along. This connection with the fans made me happy. I needed to feel at the centre of the project again. My dad has been a Lazio fan all his life and, when I was younger, he used to take me to the stadium to watch Lazio.Frattesi Could Have Signed for Lazio in January

The Italian international confirmed he almost joined Lazio in January this year, but the transfer didn’t materialize.

In January, we were close, but for a number of reasons the deal didn’t go through. This year, I was told two days ago, so I only had time to say ‘yes’ and get the paperwork sorted.The Famous Photo With Miloslav Klose

When Frattesi’s return to the club came about, the fans dug up an old picture of him with former Lazio striker, Miloslav Klose, dating back to the Aquile’s glorious Coppa Italia triumph in May 2013.

This is the Coppa Italia. I was a ball boy. I have many lads here whom I’m still in contact with, and we used to play together. Emanuele, Alessio Miceli, who made his debut for the first team. I’m still in touch with them and they bombarded me with calls and messages.Gennaro Gattuso & The New Lazio Midfield Trio

Frattesi is excited to work with Gennaro Gattuso once again following their exerience together in the Italian national team, and he also relishes his partnership with his new teammates Nicolo Rovella and Kenneth Taylor.

Yes, I’m reunited with Rino. I’ve heard from him more in these past few days than from Eleonora, my girlfriend. We met in the national team, and then things happened as they did. Some rather unusual incidents took place. I’m happy to work with him again because I know how he works and I know what kind of person he is. When I saw him today, I hugged him. Rovella and Taylor? I watched Lazio games last year. They are strong players. I spoke with Rove before arriving. This is a good midfield, but it has to be demonstrated on the pitch. Let’s talk about it again after a few games.National Team Return

Finally, the new Lazio signing believes his improved playing time will be key for his return to the Azzurri.

“Yes, yes. I also spoke with coach Roberto [Mancini, ed.], and he told me that the important thing was for me to play. He was also fundamental in my decision.