Gattuso claims Arsenal's Nuno Tavares belongs at Real Madrid' Bernabeu

Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso has told the press that former Arsenal left‑back Nuno Tavares ‘should be playing for Real Madrid’ at the Bernabeu, a claim he made on 14 September 2026 as the Portuguese defender continues his resurgence in Italy.

Tavares, a 26‑year‑old Portuguese international, joined Arsenal from Benfica for £8 million in 2021 and remained on the club’s books until 2025, making 28 appearances before being sent on loan to Marseille, Nottingham Forest and Lazio.

During his season at OM he scored six goals in 31 outings, but his spell ended abruptly after a 34‑minute FA Cup dismissal against Nottingham Forest, a moment Artetta later described as a tactical decision, saying, “I’m sorry that it was Nuno again, but we had to do it.”

Lazio revival

After a loan, Tavares signed permanently with Lazio last year and has already logged 62 appearances and 11 goals, helping the Italian side enjoy an unbeaten start and sit top of Serie A after four matches.

Gattuso told a press conference after Lazio’s 2‑2 draw with Milan that he has always believed Tavares is worthy of Real Madrid, adding, “He’s got everything it takes, he has pace, right foot, left foot.”

Real Madrid endorsement

He went on to compare the defender’s situation to a young heir who loses his inheritance, saying, “He could’ve had 10 or 12 years at Real Madrid with his qualities.”

Lazio’s contract includes a sell‑on clause that would reward Arsenal should the Portuguese move on, a detail Gattuso hinted could benefit the Gunners.

The debate continues in football circles; whether the Bernabeu will act on Gattuso’s endorsement remains to be seen, as the player still needs to convince the Spanish giants and his own mindset, a challenge the Lazio boss believes can be met this season. Sep discussions hinted at interest, and the story stays ON Football.