Lazio boss Gattuso: ‘Playing against Udinese is like going to the dentist'

Gennaro Gattuso has likened facing Udinese to "going to the dentist" as Lazio prepare to take on Kosta Runjaic's side in Serie A. The Biancocelesti coach spoke to Sky Sport shortly before kick-off, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, acknowledging the difficulty of the fixture while praising the standard of refereeing in the early stages of the season. "The level is always high. Compliments to the referees for the way they are officiating the matches and the direction things are going," Gattuso said. "This is important for our football, which is becoming more beautiful. Today we have a difficult game against a team led by the dentist, Runjaic, who is annoying to play against. Hopefully we can put in a good performance." ROME, ITALY – AUGUST 16: SS Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso reacts during the Coppa Italia match between SS Lazio and Mantova 1911 at Stadio Olimpico on August 16, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi –) Gattuso demands courage from Lazio Asked what he wants to see from his players, Gattuso stressed the importance of taking control rather than simply reacting to whatever happens during the match. "We must not suffer the events; that has to be our strength," he explained. "It is normal to suffer a little against a team like Udinese, but courage must not be lacking." Official: Lazio sign Andrea Pinamonti from Sassuolo (via www.sslazio.it) Gattuso was also asked what he expects from new signing Andrea Pinamonti beyond simply scoring goals, making clear that the collective remains more important to him than individual statistics. "For me, goals are not important, the collective is," he said. "I would not trade that for 15 goals. "At the moment, we are continuing along the path of the group, of playing openly against everyone. I expect that. "I think those who came here did not come for me, but for themselves. We have to thank the club, think about working, do well and improve from game to game." Lazio enter the fixture looking to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A season, having won their opening two Serie A matches under Gattuso.