Gattuso Praises Former Arsenal Defender Nuno Tavares, Claims He Has Real Madrid Quality Amid Serie A Rise

Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso has praised former Arsenal left-back Nuno Tavares, saying the player has the qualities needed to compete at Real Madrid. After struggling to establish himself in England, the Portuguese defender has impressed in Italy's Serie A.

Tavares Finds His Feet in Italy

Tavares joined Arsenal from Benfica in 2021 amid big hopes but failed to secure a regular spot under Mikel Arteta. Following loan spells with Marseille, Nottingham Forest, and then Lazio, the Italian club made his move permanent last year. Under new coach Gattuso, Lazio has started the season unbeaten, winning three matches and drawing once. Tavares has been key to this strong start, starting nearly every game and becoming integral to Gattuso's tactics.

Strong Words From Gattuso

Speaking to DAZN, Gattuso did not hold back on his opinion of Tavares' abilities. "I have always said that Tavares deserves to be at Real Madrid," he stated. "He has everything: speed, both feet." Yet Gattuso also pointed out that Tavares’ mental challenges have held him back. Comparing him to someone who lost his parents early and squandered an inheritance, Gattuso emphasized the need for confidence and focus to unlock his full potential.

"He could have had 10-12 years at Real Madrid with his qualities. You just need to help him understand that. He’s unusual and needs time after matches to recover, but he’s a good guy," Gattuso added.

From Premier League Struggles to Stability in Serie A

Tavares' £8 million transfer to Arsenal didn’t go as planned due to defensive lapses and inconsistency. However, his time in Italy has allowed him to find stability and grow his game. Now in his third season at Lazio, he seems settled and more confident in a system that suits him well.

Upcoming Challenge Against Venezia

This weekend, Tavares and Lazio will face newly promoted Venezia. Maintaining their unbeaten streak and securing a top-four position is a priority. If Tavares continues his form and follows his coach’s advice, he could finally reach the level that justified his initial rise to Europe's top leagues.

• Carabao Cup: Ipswich Town vs Arsenal - 15 Sept 2026, 22:00
• Serie A: Venezia vs Lazio - 19 Sept 2026, 21:45