Baroni: ‘Criticism is part of the job’ after Lazio pressure grows | OneFootball

Marco Baroni insists he is not under undue pressure from Lazio after a recent downturn in results, wanting his players to feel ‘joy’ against Torino. ‘Criticism is part of the job.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

The Biancocelesti have slipped down the standings lately, managing only one victory in their last five Serie A games, fresh off a 5-0 defeat to Bologna.

Matias Vecino is suspended, with Taty Castellanos, Patric and Arijon Ibrahimovic out of action, plus Nuno Tavares carrying a muscular issue.

Following the heavy hammering to Bologna in what was a head-to-head for fourth place, director of sport Angelo Fabiani said the club was only ‘moderately satisfied’ with their coach, hinting his future might be in doubt.

“The club did not tell me anything,” insisted Baroni in his press conference.

“The President and I had lunch along with other people yesterday, we were together for 20 minutes. There is a daily meeting with the director, so nothing different. We are all concentrated on the next match.

“Criticism is part of the job and when it is objective, that can actually help us in our work. It is part of the growth process for everyone.”

Baroni has done better than expected at Lazio

ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 16: SS Lazio head coach Marco Baroni during the Serie match between Lazio and Inter at Stadio Olimpico on December 16, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Lazio are still in the fight for a Champions League spot, as well as preparing for the Europa League quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt.

“We know full well that we have entered the most important part of the season, so we build on what we’ve done so far and will ensure we are ready,” added Baroni.

“The break for international duty was helpful, because there was some fatigue against Bologna, which was our seventh game in 20 days. Some lads will play over 60 games this season including international duty, so that must not be an alibi, but it has to be taken into account. I believe every difficulty also brings with it an opportunity.

“I could sit here and list many facts and figures, but they would seem like alibis and I don’t want that. I prefer to boost the team’s confidence. Victor on Monday is going to be fundamental, we know Torino have only lost one of their last 12 matches, so we need the best Lazio.”

Baroni always wants Lazio to enjoy their football and he reiterates that message after recent disappointing results.

“I have the experience to understand and deal with this situation, protecting the team. We must work aware of our journey and what we are going towards, but must never abandon our confidence and joy in facing these games.

“I never hide from reality, we must look it right in the eye without fear. That is what I mean when I talk about confidence, finding the determination, but also the joy of knowing we earned the opportunity to challenge for these targets,” concluded the coach.