Danilho Doekhi has been unveiled as a new Lazio player and immediately set out his ambitions, describing the Serie A side as a “very important” club while naming Raphael Varane as his footballing idol.
The 26-year-old Dutch centre-back, who joins from Bundesliga outfit Union Berlin, spoke to Football Italia after completing the move, explaining the pull of the Biancocelesti.
"Lazio is a very important club with a massive history and passionate fans. When I heard of their interest, I didn't think twice. I want to help the team achieve big things in Serie A and in Europe," Doekhi said.
The defender also revealed that his playing style has been heavily influenced by former Real Madrid and Manchester United star Raphael Varane, who retired earlier this summer.
"Varane is my idol. I've always studied his game – his positioning, his calmness on the ball, his reading of the play. He's a World Cup winner and a Champions League winner; that's the level I aspire to reach."
Doekhi arrives at the Stadio Olimpico to bolster a backline that conceded too many goals last season. Standing at 6ft 3in, he offers aerial dominance and composure in possession, traits that coach Maurizio Sarri values. The Dutchman is expected to compete for a starting spot immediately, with Lazio set to embark on a campaign that includes a return to the Champions League.
For the player, it marks the next step in a career that has seen steady progression from Vitesse to Union Berlin, where he made over 70 Bundesliga appearances. Now he'll test himself in one of Europe's most tactically demanding leagues. "I know Serie A is tough for defenders, but I'm ready. I've watched a lot of Italian football and I think my characteristics suit the style here," he added.