New Lazio Defender Names Legendary Italian Duo as Role Models, Reveals Derby Aspirations

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The Laziali

·11 settembre 2024

New Lazio Defender Names Legendary Italian Duo as Role Models, Reveals Derby Aspirations

Samuel Gigot identified iconic Italian defenders Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro as his idols while being unveiled as a new Lazio player (via La Lazio Siamo Noi).

Familiarity With Italian Managers & Role Models

The 30-year-old completed a deadline-day switch from Olympique Marseille, so he has yet to feature for Marco Baroni’s side. The Frenchman is grateful for the opportunity, noting he’s already familiar with the methods of Italian managers, in a reference to the likes of Gennaro Gattuso, Paolo Vanoli and Roberto De Zerbi.

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I thank Sporting Director Fabiani and the President for this opportunity. In Italy, there have always been great defenders. I love the art of defending. I have had many Italian coaches throughout my career, so I’ve already done similar training. I am ready to work at the back and do what’s required. I have many role models. I have followed Fabio Cannavaro since I was little and also Alessandro Nesta. They are great Italian defenders who have made history.

Former Marseille Teammate Guendouzi Pushed Gigot to Join

Gigot admitted his former Marseille teammate Matteo Guendouzi pushed him to join the club, but insists he was already convinced of this choice.

I spoke several times with Guendouzi, especially in the last few days of the mercato. He didn’t have to convince me, I just needed a little push. When Lazio called me I immediately decided to join. It’s a great club and I’ve always followed it, because I also played with [Adam] Marusic in the past. In OM, we all learned that you have to give your all and we will do the same here. I can play with anyone at the back, I saw that the centre-backs are very good.

Gigot on the Derby della Capitale & Physical Shape

The French defender already realizes the importance of the Derby Capitale against Roma for both sets of supporters, so he intends to guide his new club towards victory in this particular fixture.

The Derby is the first thing I thought about. I know that it’s a very important clash and only winning matters. For the fans, it means the whole world. It’s not about scoring goals, but about winning the contest.

Gigot is hoping to regain his optimal physical condition as soon as possible and become a stalwart at the back for Marco Baroni’s side.

The primary objective is to reach the best possible shape. I want to do so straight away and play as much as possible and produce good displays, which is what matters the most.