Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt shared his thoughts on Champions League opponents Lazio, praising coach Maurizio Sarri. The Dutch international played for Sarri during his time at Juventus, and previewing the match with La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Ligt highlighted the role the Biancocelesti boss played in his career:
“It will be a tough match against a team that plays well, I know the coach very well, I had him at Juve. He always wants to play with ‘tried and tested’ schemes, a lot of tactics, and intensity. I wouldn’t speak of favorites or underdogs because sometimes a team that is going through an unfavorable phase in the Champions League can find new energy. European matches can provide great motivation. I think they will be determined, and we must be ready.”
He then recalled the many matches he had played against Lazio, indicating the most dangerous opponent: “Ciro Immobile. A very dangerous forward, he’s always on the edge of offside, he has always scored a lot and continues to do so. He can stay out of the game for a long time, then score one or two goals out of nowhere. Many of his teammates are also ones to watch. And then there’s the coach…”
Regarding Sarri, De Ligt stated that he has a great memory of his former coach and has grown a lot with him: “At first, he always spoke in English, but I preferred Italian. Then I saw him work on the field and tactically. We did well, scored a lot, and won the league title. With him, I became much stronger.”
Finally, the Dutchman spoke about Juventus, explaining that he still keeps in touch with several former teammates and wishing them the victory of the Scudetto: “I have many friends at Juve, I had good relationships with everyone, especially those I could speak English with: McKennie, Szczesny, Ramsey, Chiesa, now Vlahovic. I still talk to them; Juve is doing very well. Inter is strong, stronger than last year when they reached the Champions League final, but I hope Juve wins the Scudetto.”
