Lazio, Klose goes down hard on Milinkovic-Savic: ‘Upset’
Lazio, Klose goes down hard on Milinkovic-Savic: ‘Upset’
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s decision to leave Lazio to move to Saudi Arabia has left former teammate Miroslav Klose stunned, who in an interview with Il Messaggero criticized the Serbian midfielder’s choice.
“It kind of shocked me. I played with him and I know him as a player and professional, he was perfect for La Liga or the Premier,” said the former German bomber. “Real leagues that would have allowed him to make the Champions League. In your career it is a step that has to be taken, otherwise you are left with remorse.”
“I respect his decision, but I don’t share it. It was better to go anywhere than to end up in the desert.”
Milinkovic-Savic, due to expire with the Biancocelesti, had struck a deal with Juventus but eventually decided to move to Al-Hilal, which offered him a whopping 20 million euros salary for three years.
Also to Il Messaggero, Lazio owner Claudio Lotito revealed a market backstory on Milinkovic-Savic: “It’s true, I decided to refuse an offer from Galliani and Milan of 140 million. It was 60 right away and another 80, payable in 5 years with Champions. I did not regret it.”
This is Milinkovic-Savic’s farewell to Lazio: “Today is a special day for me, it’s hard to find the right words to say goodbye… It’s been 8 years since my arrival and I can never forget everything we experienced together. The Coppa Italia, the two Super Cups, and all the goals and assists. You supported me always and gave me the strength of a true SERGEANT. All this will never be forgotten and I will always carry it in my heart.”
“Lazio and our people along with all the teammates I have found over the years has been a true Family. Here I learned so much and became the man I am today. Thanks also to coaches and all the staff who worked with us, and fans who with their passion helped us achieve results that seemed impossible. Last joy with Sergeant was Champions qualification and I wish you all, many more great things.”
