Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada has sent a warm message to Lazio’s supporters ahead of Thursday’s Conference League quarter-final second leg against Fiorentina at the Stadio Franchi, while admitting he remains puzzled by the circumstances that led to his departure from the Roman club.
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The Japanese international was one of the standout performers in Crystal Palace’s 3-0 first-leg victory, and arrives in Florence as one of Oliver Glasner’s most influential figures, a far cry from the uncertainty that surrounded his exit from Lazio, where he had spent a single season before his contract situation was left unresolved.
“At Lazio I had a wonderful year,” Kamada told reporters at his pre-match press conference, via FirenzeViola.
“I also had some difficult moments, but it seemed like everything was in place for me to stay. Then, I repeat, I don’t know what happened between my agent and Lotito. But I send my regards to all the Biancocelesti supporters.”
The diplomatic but pointed comment is unlikely to go unnoticed in Rome, where Claudio Lotito’s handling of player contracts has been a recurring source of controversy.
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 27: Daichi Kamada of SS Lazio reacts during the Serie A TIM match between SS Lazio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Olimpico on April 27, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
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Crystal Palace man Kamada reflects on continental experience ahead of Fiorentina clash
On the match itself, Kamada was measured about his own experience in European football while acknowledging the difficulty of predicting outcomes.
“I have played many European matches in the past and I have experience, but I don’t know how much that counts tomorrow,” he said. He pointed to the defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency that has defined Palace’s run in the competition as the key to their continued progress.
“Myself and Glasner have won trophies in the past, we try to replicate what we have done, defend well and hit on the break. That is why we have done well.”
On his own future, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Kamada was deliberately vague. “I want to focus on the present and enjoy the moment,” he said.
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