Fabiani: "We Had Promising Talents From 2008 And 2005 In Our Youth System, But Due To Flawed Regulations That Allow Them To Sign With Lower-division Teams For Minimal Compensation, They Left. It's Frustrating When We’re Blamed For Letting Them Slip Away."

Speaking to Radio Radio, Lazio's sporting director, Angelo Fabiani, discussed the club's current situation, emphasizing their commitment to improving despite recent changes. He acknowledged fans' concerns over new players from less prominent backgrounds but highlighted the focus on young talent

"This is a period of relaunch, not downsizing. The fans' concerns are understandable, as many of our new players don’t come from prominent backgrounds, but by focusing on young talent, we’ve identified some promising profiles. Everything we’re doing is with the aim of improving on an already significant past."

Fabiani addressed the challenges of adapting to life without key players like Luis Alberto and Immobile and discussed the complexities of youth development under current regulations.

"We shouldn’t dwell on the past. Players like Luis Alberto, Immobile, and Sergej also needed time to adapt initially, and we hope that the new recruits can eventually fill the void left by these key departures. Every club has resources to thoroughly assess players, and while there are doubts about Dele-Bashiru, we saw his potential firsthand in Turkey. He has incredible acceleration, reaching speeds of 37 km/h in both phases. Folorunsho might not have extraordinary technique, but his engine is powerful, and he could thrive under Baroni’s style. We also need a touch of quality, which Castrovilli, who has shown impressive physical attributes, can provide. Additionally, we have other lesser-known players who I believe will make a name for themselves. I pay close attention to players who are exemplary professionals off the pitch. I’m committed to achieving results, and as the saying goes, ‘may God bless us.’”

Fabiani reflected on Ciro Immobile's departure, calling it difficult but part of the market's realities.

"Immobile's exit was difficult on a personal level. I had a great relationship with him. Just two days before he left, he told me he was in great shape and ready to score 20 goals. But then he received an offer and decided to move on. While it’s disappointing, it's part of the realities of the market."

He criticized flawed youth regulations and highlighted the complexity of modern football, including challenges with agents and commissions.

"We had promising talents from 2008 and 2005 in our youth system, but due to flawed regulations that allow them to sign with lower-division teams for minimal compensation, they left. It's frustrating when we’re blamed for letting them slip away. Institutions should involve experienced football professionals in discussions to understand the complexities of the system. FIFA’s current rules allow players to move abroad and then return to Italy with another club. This complicates youth development. A young Sardinian player had the chance to break into the first team this year, but he chose to leave. Football has become more complex, with multiple agents, mediators, and family members involved in player decisions. It’s challenging to operate without submitting to absurd rules. When an agent demands €2 million in commissions and a percentage of a player's salary, it’s unacceptable. We need to establish clear rules. Some clubs have inflated their budgets to pay these commissions."

He praised Lazio's dedicated fans, emphasized the club's ambition to perform well, and shared plans to continue strengthening the squad, including efforts to sign Boulaye Dia. He suggested that while the squad is mostly complete, further signings are possible if they can improve the team.

"Lazio fans are deserving of a gold medal. Their season ticket purchases demonstrate their love for the club. We’re working hard not to disappoint them, doing so with calmness and humility. We’ve identified a coach who excels at working with young players, has experience at high levels, and knows the game. Our project is focused on purposeful improvement. Our goal is to serve the fans. Two years ago, I said we must serve the people and the club, not the other way around. If we understand this, I believe Lazio can achieve great things."

"It’s challenging to get everyone on the same page. We have an agreement with Salernitana, and they’ve signed the forms. Now, we need to get the other clubs, the lawyer, the agent, and the player to agree. We’re working on finding the right balance. Our aim is to sign Dia, and we’ve been asked for a day’s time to get a response from his entourage."

"This year, our players have an additional year of experience at Lazio, so we hope they can give even more. The pitch will ultimately determine whether they are Lazio material and if we’ve made the right investments. What reassures me is that many of them have received offers from Italy and abroad, but we chose not to put them on the market because we need to build the right chemistry."

"The goal I’ve communicated to the players is that we must not be second to anyone and must honor the shirt by working hard for those who sacrifice to buy a season ticket. In August, everyone is optimistic about winning championships, but we must give our best and not mislead anyone. Would I be surprised if we aim for a top 5 finish? I was born with a winning mentality. I’m confident these players will entertain and bring us great satisfaction. The key is to avoid complacency; I want to see players giving their all on the pitch because football is unpredictable."

"The attacking midfielder can play as a mezzala or as a forward, especially if Dia joins. I believe the team is complete and balanced, but that doesn’t mean the market is closed. If we identify players who can improve us, we’re obligated to bring them in. Some of the names circulating are just agents trying to start an auction. We’ve achieved most of our goals, but there’s still work to do, and we’ll see if we can add another player who can be useful to the squad."