theglobalsun – Maurizio Sarri has rejoined Lazio as head coach, returning 15 months after stepping down. The 66-year-old replaces Marco Baroni, who led Lazio to a seventh-place finish last season. This finish left the club outside European competition, prompting the management to seek a change. Sarri’s return marks a fresh start for the club, with hopes to rebuild momentum and push Lazio back into the top tier of Serie A. President Claudio Lotito welcomed Sarri’s comeback, calling it a decision rooted in passion and vision. The club aims to restore enthusiasm, identity, and ambition under Sarri’s leadership.
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Sarri’s Departure and Criticism of Lazio’s Transfer Policy
Sarri resigned from his previous Lazio role in March 2024 following a poor run of form. The team suffered five defeats in six games, which led to growing pressure on the coach. Alongside the results, Sarri openly criticized the club’s transfer policy, expressing frustration over management decisions. His dissatisfaction contributed to his departure, highlighting tensions between the coach and club executives. Despite the difficult exit, Lazio’s leadership now hopes Sarri can rekindle the success he once helped build. His return shows mutual willingness to move past previous conflicts.
Sarri’s Coaching Journey from Banker to Top Manager
Maurizio Sarri’s coaching career began uniquely, as he balanced football management with a banking job. He coached low-level Italian clubs while working as a banker until the early 2000s. Sarri quit banking to focus fully on coaching but did not reach Serie A until he was 55 years old. His breakthrough came when he led Empoli to promotion in the 2013-14 season. This late rise in professional football coaching showcases his determination and passion. Sarri’s unconventional path reflects his deep knowledge of the game and commitment to growth.
Success with Napoli, Chelsea, and Juventus Before Lazio
Before returning to Lazio, Sarri built an impressive coaching record. He managed Napoli, his hometown club, achieving two second-place finishes in three years. His success earned him the Serie A Manager of the Year award for the 2016-17 season. Sarri then moved to Chelsea for the 2018-19 season, where he won the Europa League and reached the Carabao Cup final. Returning to Italy, he won the Serie A title with Juventus the following season. These achievements underline Sarri’s tactical expertise and ability to succeed at the highest levels of European football.
Sarri’s First Spell at Lazio: Best League Finish Since 2000
Sarri joined Lazio in June 2021 for his first spell as head coach. Under his guidance, Lazio achieved a second-place finish in the 2022-23 Serie A season. This marked the club’s best league position since winning the title in 1999-2000. His tactical style and leadership helped Lazio challenge the league’s traditional powerhouses. The club now expects Sarri to continue building on this success during his second tenure. President Lotito expressed confidence that Sarri’s vision will bring back the passion and identity fans desire.