Cataldi Wears Captain’s Armband, Tavares Inherits Immobile’s Legendary No. 17 For Lazio

Lazio kicked off their new season in style, defeating the Primavera side 3-0 in a home friendly, thanks to goals from Pedro, Cancellieri, and Basic. Yet, the biggest talking point wasn’t just the result or Sarri’s early tactical experiments—it was the new face wearing the captain’s armband: Danilo Cataldi.

With Mattia Zaccagni still sidelined as he recovers from surgery, Maurizio Sarri handed the captaincy to Cataldi, marking the first major leadership change of the “Sarri-bis” era. Previously, in Zaccagni’s absence, the armband had gone to Adam Marusic. Now, Sarri’s choice signals clear trust in the 1994-born Roman midfielder, who recently returned from his stint with Fiorentina.

Cataldi’s appointment is no coincidence. A product of Lazio’s youth academy and a well-respected figure within the squad, Cataldi’s leadership qualities and deep connection to the club make him an ideal fit to guide the team through this transitional period. Wearing the armband in the season’s first match is both a reward for his maturity and a message of faith from the coaching staff.

This early sign of continuity and stability comes at a crucial time for Lazio, with the transfer market currently at a standstill and a renewed focus on developing internal resources. For Cataldi, it’s an opportunity to establish himself as a leader and an anchor for Sarri’s evolving project.

Meanwhile, all eyes also on Nuno Tavares, as the Portuguese full-back looks to carve out a new role under Sarri’s watchful guidance. After spending last season in the number 30 shirt, Tavares has opted for a change—not just tactically, but in terms of identity.

Tavares will now wear the number 17, a shirt steeped in Lazio history and most recently donned by club legend Ciro Immobile. It’s a bold choice, given the immense expectations and emotional significance attached to the number for Biancocelesti supporters.

The move didn’t go unnoticed on social media, with fans and outlets like RadioLaziale highlighting the symbolic weight of Tavares’s new number. Many fans have wished him luck and a season free from injuries, while others are eager to see if he can rise to the challenge and make the number his own in Sarri’s system.