Lazio’s newly appointed manager, Gennaro Gattuso, kicked Dutch midfielder Kenneth Taylor out of the team’s training session following a heated verbal exchange during pre-season preparations.
Gattuso has been imposing strict discipline since taking charge of I Biancocelesti (The Eagles), aiming to restore order and stability after the club finished ninth in Serie A last season.
What Happened Between Gattuso and Kenneth Taylor?
The incident occurred over an hour into the morning training session at the Formello training center when Taylor complained about a physical challenge he received on the pitch.
The situation quickly escalated when the 24-year-old Dutch midfielder openly contested Gattuso’s reprimand. Unwilling to tolerate any backtalk in front of the rest of the squad, the Italian manager halted the session and sternly ordered Taylor to leave the pitch, shouting, “Get out!” Taylor took off his training shirt and headed straight to the locker room without further argument.
Lazio resumed training shortly after Taylor’s departure—a clear early indicator of Gattuso’s uncompromising nature and zero-tolerance policy for any lack of commitment or intensity.
Lazio’s Official Stance on the Incident
Lazio officials downplayed the severity of the clash, treating it as a routine internal pre-season matter. Sources indicate that Taylor is unlikely to face harsh disciplinary penalties.
Management held discussions with both parties to resolve the situation before the afternoon training session, aiming to restore calm and prevent the spat from disrupting locker room harmony.
The clash comes just weeks after the 48-year-old Italian tactician took the helm at Lazio, as he looks to rapidly shape the squad ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign.
Who is Lazio Midfielder Kenneth Taylor?
Kenneth Taylor joined Lazio from Ajax during the previous winter transfer window for a base fee of €16.85 million, which totals close to €17 million with add-ons.
The midfielder signed a long-term contract extending through the summer of 2030 and quickly established himself as a key player under former manager Maurizio Sarri. While Gattuso initially viewed Taylor as a pivotal part of his tactical plans, the Dutch international must now quickly adapt to his manager’s demanding standards.
