Gattuso Praises Nuno Tavares as Lazio Defender Shows Real Madrid Potential

Gattuso Sees Real Madrid Future for Former Arsenal Left-Back

Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso has praised former Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares, stating the Portuguese player has what it takes to play for Real Madrid. After a difficult spell in the Premier League, Tavares has found his form in Serie A.

Tavares' Journey to Italy

Tavares joined Arsenal from Benfica in 2021 with high expectations but struggled to secure a regular spot under Mikel Arteta. Loan moves followed, including stints at Marseille and Nottingham Forest before landing at Lazio.

His initial loan to Lazio turned permanent last year. The club saw a change when Gennaro Gattuso took over as coach, injecting new energy into the squad. Lazio started the season unbeaten in Serie A, with three wins and a draw, largely thanks to Tavares' consistent performances.

Gattuso’s Bold Statement

Speaking to DAZN, Gattuso expressed strong admiration for Tavares’ skills. He said, "I’ve always said that Tavares is worthy of Real Madrid. This is a player who ought to be at Real Madrid. He’s got everything it takes, he has pace, right foot, left foot."

Despite this praise, the coach acknowledged Tavares has faced mental challenges. He compared Tavares’ lost potential to someone who inherited a fortune but wasted it quickly. Gattuso believes building the player's confidence is key to unlocking his full ability.

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

From Premier League Struggles to Serie A Stability

Tavares’ £8 million move to Arsenal did not go as planned, with defensive errors leading to a loss of favor at the Emirates Stadium. His loans gave him playing time but it was only in Italy where he began to settle and develop consistently.

Now in his third year at Lazio, Tavares has become an important part of the team, fitting well into Gattuso’s tactics.

Upcoming Challenge Against Venezia

Lazio faces newly promoted Venezia soon, and maintaining their unbeaten run is a priority. If Tavares keeps performing and follows his coach's advice, he might reach the potential that brought him to 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