Patric’s long chapter at Lazio has reached its close, with the Spanish defender leaving Rome after 11 years to join Al-Ittifaq in the United Arab Emirates.
An eleven-year Lazio story comes to an end
- Patricio Gabarron Gil arrived at Lazio in the summer of 2015 after leaving Barcelona as a free agent.
- Over the following 11 seasons, the defender made 244 appearances for the Biancocelesti and scored six goals.
- His time in Rome brought three trophies: the Coppa Italia in 2019 and Italian Supercoppe in 2017 and 2019.
- On Monday 28 September, Lazio confirmed his permanent transfer to Al-Ittifaq.
The move does not bring Lazio a transfer fee, but it removes a substantial salary from the club’s wage bill. Patric’s deal had been worth around €3 million gross per year, or €1.5 million net.
A new destination in the Emirates
The 33-year-old will now play in the Emirati second division under Montero. He joins an Al-Ittifaq side that also includes former Juventus winger Douglas Costa and Mario Balotelli.
For Lazio, the departure brings an end to a notably durable spell in the modern club game. Patric arrived in the capital as a young player and remained through changing coaches, squads and sporting cycles, becoming part of a group that delivered silverware during a significant period for the club.
Patric’s farewell to the Lazio supporters
In a video message shared by Lazio, Patric addressed the supporters who accompanied him through his years in Rome.
“I arrived here as a boy and I leave as a man,” he said. “Even in my best dreams, I could not have imagined such a love story. We won, lost, suffered and celebrated, but what I will truly take with me is your love.
“I always said I would stay as long as I felt able to give everything. Today I leave with a full heart, but a part of me will remain here forever.”
