Danilho Doekhi Joins Lazio, Reveals Varane as Idol in Exclusive Debut Interview

FolioPitch.com – 16 July 2026 | Danilho Doekhi has officially joined Lazio, completing his medical and speaking for the first time as a Biancoceleste. In his debut interview, the Dutch defender expressed his excitement and revealed his footballing inspiration. Doekhi on joining very important Lazio and reveals Varane is my idol set the tone for a heartfelt introduction that has already endeared him to the fans.

The 28-year-old arrived from Union Berlin, where he spent two seasons establishing himself as a reliable Bundesliga centre-back. Speaking to Lazio’s official channels, Doekhi said: “I’m very happy to be here. Lazio are a very important club, so I’m glad to have arrived.” The transfer marks a significant step in his career, moving to Serie A after previous stints in the Netherlands and Germany.

Doekhi revealed he has already spoken with new coach Gennaro Gattuso. “We had a good chat. Now we just have to work. There are already two Dutch lads here and that helps me a lot, it’s nice that they’re here,” he added, referencing teammates Tijjani Reijnders and another Dutch compatriot. The defender’s adaptation will be eased by the presence of familiar faces in the squad.

When asked to describe his playing style, Doekhi gave a clear self-portrait: “I’m a defender who tries to read the game, who likes defending, taking on strikers and stopping them from scoring. But I also like to be dangerous in the opposition box from set-pieces and score with my head.” This dual threat—solid defending plus aerial ability—will be crucial for Lazio as they balance league and European commitments.

Doekhi’s footballing lineage runs deep: his uncle is former Ajax, Milan, Barcelona and Chelsea defender Winston Bogarde. “I speak with him often, about this transfer too. He told me Lazio are a great club and Italy is a beautiful country to live in, and that the league is very competitive,” Doekhi shared. Yet his ultimate inspiration comes from a more recent legend. Doekhi on joining very important Lazio and reveals Varane is my idol resonated strongly as he explained: “My idol has always been Varane. He’s stopped playing but I always liked him enormously, partly because we have a similar style. For me he’s a reference point.”

The number five shirt, which he wore in Berlin, will be his at Lazio. He signed off with a message to supporters and a preferred nickname: “You can call me Dani, or Duki, whatever you prefer! To the fans I want to say I’m delighted to be here, I can’t wait to meet them and I hope to give them plenty of satisfaction.”

Doekhi’s arrival continues the reshaping of Gattuso’s defence following Mario Gila’s sale to Milan. The Biancocelesti gain an experienced, physical presence at the back—a player who has faced top strikers in the Bundesliga and now aims to conquer Serie A. Lazio fans will be eagerly anticipating his debut, knowing their new defender not only brings quality but also a deep respect for the game’s greats.

In conclusion, Doekhi’s move to Lazio represents both a personal and professional milestone. His admiration for Raphaël Varane and family guidance from Winston Bogarde have shaped him into the defender he is today. As he settles into his new surroundings, Doekhi on joining very important Lazio and reveals Varane is my idol will remain a defining moment of his arrival—a statement of intent and humility that bodes well for his future in Rome.