The former Roma academy midfielder discussed his family’s Lazio support, his years with the Giallorossi and the influence of Gennaro Gattuso on his decision to return to the capital.
Davide Frattesi has discussed his football allegiance and the reasons behind his decision to join Lazio during his introductory press conference with the Biancocelesti.
The Italian midfielder arrived with several connections to both clubs in the capital. His father supports Lazio, while Frattesi spent three years in Roma’s academy before leaving for Sassuolo.
Speaking through Lazio’s official channels, Frattesi explained that his relationship with Gennaro Gattuso and the opportunity to move closer to his family were important factors behind his decision.
Frattesi Discusses His Lazio Support
Frattesi was directly asked what convinced him to join Lazio and whether he had always supported the club.
“I’m here now. Unfortunately, nobody checked these things for me before,” Frattesi said.
“I started as a ball boy beneath the Curva Sud, though. I was close to Scamacca on May 26, and I teased him about it. My father is a Lazio supporter and used to take me to the stadium. I’ve been there several times.”
Despite spending part of his development with Roma, Frattesi emphasized his family’s connection to the Biancocelesti.
Gattuso’s Project Convinced Frattesi
The midfielder also explained the influence of Gattuso, with their relationship beginning while working together with the Italian national team.
“My relationship with the coach began some time ago with the national team,” Frattesi continued. “Certain circumstances then developed, and I didn’t have to think about it for very long. I needed a project like this.
“I’m certain about my decision. I arrived with great enthusiasm and expectations. I’ve found an important group and a training centre where we can work well.”
Frattesi’s arrival adds another major reinforcement to Lazio’s squad after the club also completed the signing of Andrea Pinamonti. The striker has already discussed his excitement about facing Roma in his first Derby della Capitale.
Frattesi’s Past With Roma
Frattesi joined Roma’s academy in 2014 after leaving Lazio’s youth system.
He remained with the Giallorossi until 2017, when he moved to Sassuolo. It was there that he eventually established himself in Serie A before continuing his career at Inter.
A return to Roma was discussed during several previous transfer windows, but a reunion with the Giallorossi never materialized.
Frattesi has now returned to his home city on the opposite side of the capital’s rivalry, strengthening a Lazio team expected to compete with Roma for the leading Serie A positions.
Roma have also reinforced their squad considerably and currently possess the fourth-highest estimated squad value in Serie A.
Family Considerations Behind Rome Return
Frattesi also highlighted the importance of moving closer to his family.
That personal factor may help explain why the Rome-born midfielder had repeatedly been associated with both capital clubs during previous transfer windows.
His return has now become official—but rather than rejoining Roma, the former Giallorossi academy player will represent Lazio and work under Gattuso at Formello.
Sources: Lazio, Lazio Siamo Noi
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