Pellegrini: "Coach Baroni Deserves A Lot Of Credit; He’s A Steady Influence Who’s Always Prepared Us Well Before Games. He Keeps Everyone Engaged, Whether They’re Starting Or Not."

Ahead of Lazio’s match against Cagliari, Luca Pellegrini, the Biancoceleste full-back and former Cagliari player, spoke with Lazio Style Channel to preview the game:

"Enthusiasm is a positive force, but we need balance to keep it from turning into arrogance. Our recent performances reflect the dedication and hard work we’re putting in. Enthusiasm should stay our ally. Coach Baroni deserves a lot of credit; he’s a steady influence who’s always prepared us well before games. His empathy and ability to read the team’s needs are crucial. He keeps everyone engaged, whether they’re starting or not, and that shows in our consistently strong performances. I’m happy with my current progress and playing time, though there’s always room to improve. We need to draw strength from each other’s qualities, and we have a tightly-knit team that supports one another."

"I knew Nuno was talented, but his eight assists this season have been incredible. He’s the best left-back in Serie A right now, and probably among the top in Europe. Even top players like Messi and Ronaldo have areas to improve, and so does he."

"I have wonderful memories from my time at Cagliari. It was my first time away from home, and though we struggled at first, we turned things around. In my second season, we were briefly fourth in the league. But more than the games, I remember the people—it felt like a second home. Football may end, but the relationships and memories stay with you."

"I don’t have one role model; I focus more on the person I aspire to become rather than just my style of play. I used to get frustrated if I felt misunderstood, but looking inward has helped me grow. I have a vision of the person I want to be. As for Lazio, newcomers will learn just by stepping into the stadium and experiencing the energy. Later, we may need some extra guidance, but the experience speaks for itself. My childhood idol was Salas, and I still remember many old Lazio chants from that time."

"I have fond memories of my friendship with Fabio Pisacane at Cagliari; he was like a big brother to me. At Lazio, Nicolò Rovella is someone I get along with really well, but we’re a close group here, which is a first for me."

"I don’t have many hobbies, though I enjoy unwinding over dinner with friends. I’m lucky to have friends I can talk with for hours or just be with in comfortable silence. Reaching 100 Serie A appearances is a big milestone, and doing it with Lazio is beyond anything I could have dreamed."