Gattuso Hails Former Arsenal Defender Nuno Tavares as Real Madrid-Caliber Player Amid Lazio Revival

Gattuso Praises Tavares' Potential for Real Madrid

Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso has praised former Arsenal left-back Nuno Tavares, declaring the Portuguese defender has the qualities to represent Real Madrid. Despite a rocky stint at the Emirates Stadium, Tavares has revived his career in Serie A with Lazio.

Revival in Italy

Tavares joined Arsenal from Benfica in 2021 amid high hopes but struggled to secure a regular starting spot under Mikel Arteta. Loan moves to Marseille, Nottingham Forest, and then Lazio followed. Lazio made his loan permanent last year after initially bringing him in temporarily.

The club underwent changes after Maurizio Sarri's departure, with Gattuso taking charge and sparking a fresh start. Lazio remain unbeaten in Serie A this season, winning three matches and drawing one. Tavares has featured in almost every game, becoming key to Gattuso's strategy.

High Praise from Gattuso

Speaking to DAZN, Gattuso highlighted Tavares’ blend of speed and technical skill with both feet. "I've always said Tavares is worthy of Real Madrid," he stated. "He has everything — pace, right foot, left foot." Yet Gattuso acknowledged that mental challenges have held the defender back at times. He compared Tavares’ wasted potential to someone inheriting a fortune but losing it all within five years.

"He knows he has talent and could’ve had 10-12 years at Real Madrid with his qualities," Gattuso added. "You’ve just got to get him to understand. He is unusual and after a match he needs his time to recover, but he’s a good lad. You need to get into his head and make him understand."

Overcoming Premier League Struggles

Tavares’ move to Arsenal for £8 million did not go as planned due to defensive lapses, which saw him fall out of favour. His consistent performances in Italy have provided stability, and now in his third Lazio season, he appears to have found a fitting environment to develop.

Looking Ahead: Venezia Test

Lazio will face newly promoted Venezia soon, with Tavares expected to continue his strong form. The club aims to maintain their unbeaten run and secure a top-four position in Serie A. If Tavares keeps progressing and follows Gattuso’s advice, he could fulfill the promise that first attracted Europe’s top leagues.

• Upcoming fixtures:
• Carabao Cup: Ipswich Town vs Arsenal, 15 Sept 2026, 22:00
• Serie A: Venezia vs Lazio, 19 Sept 2026, 21:45