Reflecting on Lazio: A Special Chapter
Lucas Biglia’s time at Lazio stands out as one of the most fulfilling and successful periods in his career. Arriving from Anderlecht in 2011, the Argentine midfielder quickly adapted to the Italian game and became an integral part of the Lazio squad under several different coaches, including Petkovic, Reja, Pioli, and Inzaghi. These years were marked by a strong bond and mutual respect between Biglia and his teammates, as well as a series of near misses in major competitions. Despite losing the Coppa Italia final twice and the Supercoppa Italiana once, all against Juventus, Biggia’s tenure at Lazio was characterized by his leadership and skill, often wearing the captain’s armband. His ability to control the midfield and dictate the flow of the game earned him a revered status among fans, and he is still remembered fondly for his contributions.
The Transition to Milan: High Hopes and Low Returns
The transition from Lazio to AC Milan in 2017 was a significant move for Biggia, both in terms of the club’s stature and the financial investment. At 31, he was brought to Milan for a hefty €20 million, a sign of the club’s confidence in his ability to strengthen their midfield. However, the reality of playing for a high-profile club like Milan proved to be a challenge. Biggia struggled to replicate the form that had made him a standout player at Lazio, a combination of recurring injuries and the immense pressure placed on him by fans and the media. The first year showed promise, but an injury that kept him out for four months in his second year derailed his progress. This setback, coupled with the club’s changing ownership and management, made it difficult for Biggia to find his footing and deliver the kind of performances expected of him.
Ownership and Management: The Root of the Problem
One of the key factors Biggia identifies for his struggles at Milan is the club’s ownership and management during his tenure. When he arrived, Milan was under Chinese ownership, a period marked by confusion and a lack of clear direction. The end of the Berlusconi era, which had defined the club for decades, left a void that was not immediately filled. It wasn’t until the second year, when Elliott Management took over and brought in directors like Leonardo and Maldini, that things started to improve. However, Biggia’s time at the club was already compromised by his long-term injury. He observes that the club’s resurgence, including winning the Scudetto and reaching the Champions League semi-finals, was a natural progression from the stability and good work that followed. Despite his absence, Biggia feels a sense of connection to these achievements, recognizing the importance of a well-supported team environment.
Impressions of the Current Lazio Squad
Biggia’s current role as the head coach of the Under 17 Elite side for US Aldini, an amateur club in Milan, keeps him connected to the game he loves. His son Alessio is part of the US Aldini setup, adding a personal touch to his new career. When asked about the current Lazio squad, Biggia speaks highly of the proactive approach adopted by coach Maurizio Baroni. He acknowledges that taking over from the likes of Inzaghi and Sarri is no easy task, but Baroni has managed to instill a dynamic and risk-taking style of play. Biggia also highlights the quality of players like Filip Rovella, whom he sees as a dynamic and talented midfielder with the potential to join the national team. Rovella’s ability to find spaces and contribute to the build-up play resonates with Biggia’s own playing style, though he notes that Rovella is more versatile and energetic.
Castellanos: A Crucial Absence
Another player Biggia discusses is his compatriot Joaquín Castellanos, who has been leading the way with goals for Lazio. Biggia is quick to praise Castellanos’s form, noting that his absence from the San Siro clash will be a significant blow to the team. Castellanos’s goal-scoring prowess and his ability to exploit defensive weaknesses have made him a key asset for Lazio. Biggia believes that Castellanos, much like Rovella, has the qualities to represent the national team, and his absence will test the depth and adaptability of the Lazio squad.
The Upcoming Milan-Lazio Clash
The match between AC Milan and Lazio, which Biggia is likely to attend, is set to be a crucial encounter for both teams. Milan, coming off a series of disappointing results, will be under immense pressure to turn their fortunes around. Biggia emphasizes that the current crisis at Milan is not solely due to the players on the pitch but also involves the club’s management and support structures. He notes that stars like Rafael Leão, Theo Hernández, and Mike Maignan, who were pivotal in the 2021-2022 Scudetto win, are not performing to their usual standards. Biggia attributes this to the excessive expectations placed on them and various external factors affecting their game. On the other hand, Lazio, with their more consistent and psychologically well-prepared team, are in a stronger position. Biggia expects a tough and competitive match, with Lazio ready to capitalize on Milan’s current issues and further solidify their standing in the league.
