After joining the club on a free transfer last week, new Lazio defender Danilho Doekhi has been introduced to the press.
### Lazio Unveil Danilho Doekhi
The 28-year-old saw out his contract with Union Berlin before joining the Biancocelesti, effectively replacing [Mario Gila, who was sold to AC Milan](https://thelaziali.com/2026/07/10/mario-gila-lazio-fans-farwell-ac-milan/). Following Alfonso Pedraza’s unveiling, Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani introduced the Dutch centre-back, who expressed his delight at joining the Italian capital side (via [La Lazio Siamo Noi](https://www.lalaziosiamonoi.it/in-evidenza/diretta-lazio-doekhi-conferenza-live-lalaziosiamonoi-it-249058)).
> It’s a pleasure. I’m very happy to be here. Lazio are a great club, and I’m here with my family. It’s wonderful to be at Lazio. When you’re a free agent, you receive a lot of offers. Then Lazio came in, and I felt it was the perfect fit for my characteristics. From that moment, I had no doubts.
### Doekhi Opens up on His Attributes & Impressive Injury Record
Doekhi isn’t only renowned for his defensive credentials, but also for his occasional attacking contributions, having scored six goals last season.
> I like keeping clean sheets and helping the team win matches. And if I can chip in with a few goals as well, even better.
>
> I’ve been quite fortunate (with injuries). I played every minute over the last two seasons without missing any time through injury. I’ve never had any major injuries. I take good care of myself off the pitch, I eat well, rest properly, and always prepare in the best possible way for the next match. I didn’t speak to any other players about Lazio, though.
### Doekhi Received Leonardo Bonucci’s Blessing
Doekhi is confident his characteristics are well-suited for Italian football, especially after chatting with his former Union Berlin teammate, Leonardo Bonucci, who paid Lazio a visit this week.
> I think I’ll adapt well to both the team and Serie A. A lot of people have told me that.
> I spoke with Bonucci a lot. For us in Berlin, he was a legend. I asked him for advice about playing in Italy, and he was one of the people who told me that my characteristics are very well suited to this league.
### The Tactical Switch
Finally, Doekhi insisted that switching from Union Berlin’s three-man backline to Gennaro Gattuso’s four-man defence won’t cause him any issues.
> That’s true, I’ve played in a back three over the last two years, but when I was younger I often played in a back four. I can’t wait to get started.