2 hours ago 1

Pedro previews Lazio vs. Roma Derby della Capitale: ‘Been talking about it for weeks’

Pedro believes that the Derby della Capitale between Lazio and Roma brings the perfect opportunity for the Biancocelesti to get their season back on track after an underwhelming start to the campaign that has left them in 12th place in the table.

Lazio will take on fierce rivals Roma in the Derby della Capitale at the Stadio Olimpico in Sunday’s early Serie A kick-off, beginning at 11.30 BST.

The veteran Spaniard spoke to DAZN ahead of the derby, discussing his side’s start to the season, which has brought three points from the opening three matches of the season, his excitement to play against Roma and his career plans after retirement.

Here is what he had to say.

Pedro on Lazio vs. Roma: ‘There’s more passion and intensity here’

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 28: Pedro Rodriguez of SS Lazio celebrates a frist goal during the Serie match between Lazio and Parma at Stadio Olimpico on April 28, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“We started badly, but we have a great opportunity to start again in the derby,” Pedro said in an interview with DAZN (reported via Corriere dello Sport).

“There’s nothing I can say to the fans other than to thank them for their support. They’re very important, our strength and they will be behind us in the stadium on Sunday.

“We know that we have to give extra effort for them. The derby is a different kind of game, not just for the players, but also for the fans, for the city. These are special matches, which I really enjoy playing in.

ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 05: Players of both side’s clash during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on January 05, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“The derby is different here, there’s more passion and intensity. We’ve been talking about it for weeks. People stop you in the street to speak to you about it. I try to not read too much about the derby. You have to go into it without thinking too much. It’s important to take a step back and stay calm, and make sure that the tension doesn’t take away from your preparation.”

Pedro went on to speak about the importance of rest and recovery given that he turned 38 years of age in the summer. He feels that Milan’s Luka Modric sets the perfect example.

“Recovery is important. I’m not 20 or 25 anymore. Rest is essential, as is nutrition, but by talking to the manager and coaches, you can manage all of it. Other players with great careers like Modric are doing it. It’s good for Serie A that guys like him come in.”

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Pedro was also asked if he has given much thought to his post-playing career.

The Spaniard knows that he wants to take a bit of a sabbatical to spend time with his children, but after that, the door remains open to any opportunity.

“I don’t know if this will be my last year, but I want to enjoy every moment here. I haven’t thought about anything, I want to rest for the first year (after retirement), have a different kind of life and be with my family and children, who are in Barcelona.

“After that, definitely something related to football. It’s what we know how to do. But I don’t know whether that will be as a coach or something else. I don’t like to sit at home staring at the ceiling. I’ll do something, but I haven’t decided what yet.”