This archive report was first published on 18 August 2020.
On August 18, 2020, Italian football club Lazio was reportedly close to signing former Manchester City and Spain midfielder David Silva. However, the 34-year-old attacking midfielder instead signed a two-year deal with Spanish side Real Sociedad.
Real Sociedad finished sixth in La Liga and were in search of a new playmaker after Norway's Martin Odegaard returned to Real Madrid following a one-year loan spell. The 2020-21 La Liga season was set to begin on September 12.
Responding to Silva's transfer, Lazio sporting director Igli Tare expressed his disapproval, stating, 'I learn about David Silva's transfer to Real Sociedad. I have great respect for the player, but not for the man.'
David Silva spent 10 years at Manchester City, making 436 appearances and helping the team win 14 trophies. He last played in La Liga in 2010, spending six years at Valencia before moving to the Premier League.
