Gattuso Hails “Fantastic” Kenneth Taylor After Lazio’s Six-Goal Thrashing of Sassuolo

FolioPitch.com – 28 October 2026 | Lazio manager Gennaro Gattuso was full of praise for Kenneth Taylor after the Biancocelesti’s emphatic 6-2 victory over Sassuolo, even though the midfielder was visibly upset at being substituted at half-time. In a post-match press conference, Gattuso admitted that “He s Fantastic Gattuso Hails Lazio Star Who Was Upset With Substitution,” acknowledging Taylor’s frustration while lauding his unique abilities. The win, Lazio’s eighth in nine Serie A matches, keeps them top of the table and extends their remarkable run of form.

Taylor, who scored one goal and provided an assist in a scintillating first-half display, was withdrawn at the interval after receiving a yellow card. Gattuso explained that the decision was purely tactical, aimed at avoiding the risk of a second booking. “Taylor was a bit pissed off today because I substituted him at half-time, but he had been booked, and I didn’t want to give them an advantage,” the coach revealed. “Dele-Bashiru is pushing hard, but Taylor is a player who is always in the right position and sees things that we mere mortals cannot see. He’s fantastic.”

The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Lazio raced into an early lead and capitalised on Sassuolo’s first-half red card to dominate proceedings. Despite the numerical advantage, Gattuso was quick to point out that his side’s high-pressing approach was key to their success. “When we stop being aggressive in pressing our opponents, we become vulnerable,” he said. “We started the game in a way I really like. Fantastic stuff.” The coach also highlighted the importance of not getting carried away by their league position: “We don’t look at the table, otherwise we’d get drunk on happiness and get carried away.”

The victory was made even more special by the presence of 10,000 Lazio supporters who travelled to the Mapei Stadium on a midweek evening. Gattuso was visibly moved by the turnout, saying, “I told the team about it. It’s Tuesday, and there were 10,000 people in the stadium. All I can do is thank everyone. It was an incredible evening.” He expressed a desire to see similar support at the Stadio Olimpico, where fans have been boycotting matches due to a rift with club president Claudio Lotito. “I would like the fans to come and fill the Olimpico and give us a helping hand,” he added. “But I cannot change either the supporters’ minds or the president’s. That is something between them.”

Gattuso also had words of gratitude for former Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi, who compared the current side to his own strong Lazio teams. “I thank him. It means a lot to me,” Gattuso said. “His Lazio side were strong, both defensively and tactically. It’s an honour for me to hear that from him.” The coach also reserved praise for Tijjani Noslin, whose second-half brace sealed the rout. “Look at the determination with which he presses and the strength he puts into it,” Gattuso remarked. “With a player like that, opponents are always under pressure.”

Despite the euphoria, Gattuso remains grounded. He jokingly dismissed the idea of holding up a sign reading ‘-15’, a reference to the points Lazio still need to reach the 40-point safety mark. “I’m not putting up any signs. I’ll just remind them that there are 15 points still to play for. When you take a beating in life, you mustn’t forget it. Three months ago, we were knocked out in the first round of the Coppa. We cannot forget that.”

As the season progresses, Lazio’s impressive form has raised expectations, but Gattuso is keen to keep his players focused on their own journey. The coach’s ability to manage egos, as demonstrated by his handling of Taylor’s substitution, will be crucial in maintaining harmony within the squad. With the support of the fans and the talent at his disposal, Gattuso’s Lazio looks well-equipped to challenge for honours. For now, though, the focus remains on the next match and the continued development of a team that is exceeding expectations.

In conclusion, Gattuso’s Lazio continues to impress, and the coach’s praise for Kenneth Taylor, despite the player’s frustration, highlights the strong man-management skills that are driving the club forward. The victory over Sassuolo was a statement of intent, and with the fans rallying behind them, the Biancocelesti are poised for a memorable season.