Lapadula on his arrival to Cagliari: "There were options to arrive earlier and it finally materialized."

A new challenge has begun for Gianluca Lapadula, as he has become the new reinforcement of Cagliari, a club that will compete in Serie B in the 2022-23 season. The Italo-Peruvian forward has already had his first training sessions with his new teammates and expressed his eagerness to get on the field soon.

The 32-year-old footballer held a press conference on Friday and showed his excitement. "I have been a rival on several occasions, today I wear the red and blue colors and I am eager to do well. In recent years, there had been the possibility of landing in Sardinia, this time everything has materialized," 'Bambino' began.

"I can't wait to play the first games with my new teammates. I'm happy to meet Leonardo Pavoletti (forward). When you have such strong and experienced people by your side, everything is simpler. We are available for any solution the coach wants to adopt," added the attacker.

Similarly, Lapadula referred to Cagliari's coach, with whom he coincided in the 2019-20 season: "I know coach Fabio Liverani since the time of Lecce, he is a very demanding strategist with whom I played both in the 4-3-3 and in the 4-3-2-1. For me, it is a stimulus to replace a high-level player like Joao Pedro, who has done great things at Cagliari,"

"I will adapt to each technical-tactical context, both as a center forward and alongside another attacker. The shirt number? I have played with both 9 and 10. I haven't decided yet," the talented athlete also highlighted.

Finally, Gianluca highlighted the good relationship he has established with his new teammates. "Nicolás Viola is a friend. I have also met Aresti, Deiola, Pavoletti. There is an important core of experienced and good young players, with excellent qualities to do well. The next Serie B will be of a high level, but we are focused on our home. I ask the fans to stay close to us, they can be the extra weapon to achieve the goal," concluded 'Bambino'.

Cagliari prepares for official activity

Cagliari's official presentation will be on Friday, August 5, when they face Perugia in the second round of the Italian Cup. Later, on the 13th of the same month, the 'Red and Blues' will begin their journey towards promotion to the first division: they will visit Como in the opening match of Serie B.