Echoes of March 2024 as Lazio Squad Disgruntled With Sarri Playing Style | OneFootball

Lazio players are reportedly unhappy with the playing style implemented by Maurizio Sarri, evoking memories of the latter’s first tenure at the club.

The Background

The 67-year-old’s first stint in the capital began in the summer of 2021. It reached its apex in the 2022/23 season, with the team finishing second in the Serie A table. However, the Aquile suffered a steep decline in Sarri’s third season. The manager’s grip on the locker room was beginning to slip, so he opted to resign in March 2024, also citing family reasons.

Maurizio Sarri Enduring Challenging Second Spell at Lazio

The Tuscan tactician agreed to return for a second spell last summer, but his comeback was almost immediately hampered by a transfer ban that prevented the club from making the required additions to his squad. The situation was further complicated following a January transfer window that witnessed the departures of Matteo Guendouzi and Taty Castellanos, among others.

Maurizio Sarri (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Sarri has been constantly complaining about the lack of quality in his squad, believing his team isn’t capable of challenging for the top spots. Therefore, the coach has been focusing on building a strong defence, opting for a rather uninspiring playing style.

Lazio Players Have Two Requests for Sarri

According to Il Messaggero, the Lazio players have become disgruntled with the current brand of football. While the squad hasn’t turned on the former Napoli and Chelsea boss, the players are hoping for a more attacking approach and less sterile possession.

Sarri Won’t Resign Again

The Roman newspaper notes that this situation is almost reminiscent of the one that culminated in Sarri’s departure in March 2024. Nevertheless, the source insists that the manager won’t resign this time, at least not in the middle of the campaign. Therefore, if the Lazio hierarchy wants him gone, they’ll have to sack him and accept the financial repercussions.