Lazio’s Dutch star Noslin living the dream: “Fans in Rome want to take pictures with me”

Ajax welcome Europa League table-toppers Lazio to the Johan Cruyff Arena tonight, and while Francesco Farioli’s side look to turn their form around following a draw and defeat against FC Utrecht and AZ Alkmaar respectively, they’ll also be focused on fellow Dutch threat, Tijjani Noslin.

The Amsterdam-born striker enjoyed a relatively steady rise through the amateur ranks of USV Hercules, DHSC and semi-pro TOP Oss, before an impressive spell with Fortuna Sittard brought the attention of Hellas Verona and now Lazio.

In his press conference appearance in the run-up to this heavyweight Europa League battle, Noslin spoke of his recent rise, and of course, an intriguing run of form that saw him notch an impressive hat-trick against Napoli in the Coppa Italia.

With those heights mentioned though, even the novelty of chatting with the press isn’t lost on the 25-year-old.

“It’s a huge honour, I’ve never experienced anything like it. I’m really curious about the questions that will come.”

And of course, he gets those questions. Because Noslin’s story is special. For a working and studying amateur footballer, reaching the Eredivisie at Fortuna Sittard was of course already unimaginable. So, to reach solid heights in Italy? Even better.

“Football is very much alive in Rome. In certain places, there are a lot of fans who want to take a picture of you, but that’s not a problem.”

Following his brilliant trifecta against the Neapolitans – the cheerful attacker explained that, given his upbringing, he has not struggled to adjust to life in Italy.

“I think it has to do with my life, with how I grew up. When you go through different difficult periods from a young age, it can help you. The things you learn on the street and at home, you can also take with you into football.”

Tonight, Noslin has a very special chance to prove himself against Ajax. “Of course, you want to show everyone what you can do. Of course, you are also in your own city, where many family and friends come to watch. Then you always want to show something extra against Ajax. We are going to give everything.”

The Amsterdam native has clearly absorbed Italian football culture in his one year in the country and could make things difficult for Francesco Farioli’s side tonight.

“The most important thing is that we win. The way we win doesn’t matter.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield