Zaccagni: "I Live In Rome—And I’m Staying. Playing Here Makes You Fall In Love With This Shirt And Its History. It’s Where I’ve Built A New Life And A Family. My Heart Belongs Here Now."

The spotlight of the "Champions of Made in Italy" series recently turned to Rome, where Lazio captain Mattia Zaccagni served as both ambassador and narrator for a heartfelt portrait of the Eternal City. The episode, part of a celebration of Italy’s athletic excellence and cultural heritage, explored Zaccagni’s deep personal connection to Rome, his football journey, and the symbols that define the capital.

Viewers were first guided through iconic Roman landmarks such as the Imperial Forums and the Pantheon, before Zaccagni took center stage to share what Rome has come to mean to him. “I spent eight amazing years in Verona, but Rome is the Capital—it’s where I’ve built a new life and a family. My heart belongs here now,” said the Lazio winger.

Born in Bellaria, near Rimini, Zaccagni reflected on his humble beginnings and the life he might have led if not for football. “If I weren’t a player, I probably would have taken over my parents’ hotel. My roots are in Bellaria, but Verona was a stepping stone. It felt like a smaller version of Rome,” he explained.

Acting as an informal tour guide, Zaccagni brought viewers to the Trevi Fountain, marveling at its beauty and cultural power. He also offered a glimpse into lesser-known wonders like the Ancient Cistern of the Virgin Aqueduct, which still supplies the iconic fountain. “Rome is incomparable—you breathe history here,” he noted.

The feature also highlighted Rome’s lesser-known role in aerospace innovation. Zaccagni linked childhood dreams of flying to his current role as a footballer in a city that symbolizes global ambition. “Rome isn’t just art and football—it's also home to the Italian Space Agency. That says everything about how this city looks to the future,” he said proudly.

Zaccagni recalled one of his most memorable career moments: scoring at the European Championship. “That goal brought indescribable joy—not just to me, but to all of Italy. My wife showed it to our son the next morning. It’s something I’ll cherish forever,” he shared, describing the rush of emotion that comes with scoring in such high-stakes matches.

No Roman football story is complete without a nod to the derby. Zaccagni spoke of the unique pressure that builds in the lead-up to Lazio vs. Roma. “You feel it in the air weeks before—it’s not just a match; it changes the city’s mood. People stop me in the street just to talk about it,” he said.

For Zaccagni, football is synonymous with passion. From kicking a ball at age four to becoming Lazio's captain, his story is one of perseverance and deep affection for the club. “Wearing this jersey is a dream come true. Taking the armband from my friend Ciro means so much. With Baroni as coach, we’ve found calm and confidence. Playing here makes you fall in love with this shirt and its history,” he said.

The interview closed on a personal note. “I’m Mattia Zaccagni, but around here, just call me Zac. I live in Rome—and I’m staying.”