Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso — the former AC Milan midfield icon — has made a bold declaration about Nuno Tavares, insisting the left-back has the qualities to play for Real Madrid if he can harness the right mentality.

Tavares, 26, arrived at Arsenal from Benfica for £8 million in July 2021, but struggled to convince manager Mikel Arteta during his sole season at the Emirates. The Portuguese defender was subsequently loaned to Marseille in Ligue 1, then had further temporary stints with Nottingham Forest and Lazio before the Rome club secured his permanent signature 12 months ago.

A difficult year at Lazio — and a fresh start under Gattuso

In his first full season with Lazio, Tavares made 28 appearances across all competitions as the club endured a challenging campaign that ended with Maurizio Sarri leaving by mutual consent. The club finished ninth in Serie A, a result that prompted a managerial overhaul.

Gattuso has energised Lazio since stepping in. The new coach guided the club to three wins and a draw from their opening four Serie A fixtures, placing them at the summit of the Italian top flight. Tavares has started all but one of those matches — a clear signal of his coach's confidence in him.

Gattuso's glowing assessment

Speaking to DAZN, Gattuso was effusive in his praise, comparing Tavares to a young heir who squandered a fortune.