Three Things We Learned From Lazio vs Cagliari: Sarri’s Insigne Obsession Explained | OneFootball

Despite missing the services of several key players, Lazio have seemingly dispelled their early-season woes, as they have now put together a six-match unbeaten streak after toppling Cagliari by two goals to nil.

The history records tell that the Biancocelesti seldom drop points in their meetings against the Sardinians, and this was no exception. But while Lazio’s superiority over the Rossoblu is hardly fresh, there were still several conclusions to deduce from the action at the Stadio Olimpico.

Why Maurizio Sarri is Desperate for Lorenzo Insigne Reunion

This will be a long season for the Laziali. Although the results have thankfully improved, this came at the aesthetic’s expense. On the back of an almost unwatchable stalemate in Pisa, the Italian capital side produced another not-so-inspiring showing on Monday.

Aside from a brief onslaught, Maurizio Sarri’s men never posed a danger to Cagliari’s goal in the first half. After the break, they only marginally raised the tempo, but there were hardly any goal-scoring chances before Isaksen’s 65th-minute winner.

At this stage, it seems that the manager has realised that his best chance at garnering points is to maintain a solid defensive block and rely on individual brilliance in the final third. Hence, we can see why Sarri is hellbent on reuniting with his former Napoli pupil, Lorenzo Insigne, who is equally determined to join Lazio, even if it means staying on the sidelines until June.

The best version of the Euro 2020 winner is capable of settling matches with his trickery and exquisite touch. But at the age of 34, and after six months of inactivity, one might wonder if this version can still be unlocked.

Mattia Zaccagni: From Captain to Leader

Speaking of difference makers, Zaccagni produced one of his best showings of the season thus far, although he had to wait until the 90th minute to get his goal. In addition to causing havoc in the final third, the 30-year-old repeatedly tracked back to support his teammates and was noticeably efficient in the defensive phase.

Although he’s been donning the armband since last season, it feels as if the winger has been gradually morphing from a captain appointed by the hierarchy into a genuine leader who inspires his teammates with his generosity, tenacity and exemplary demeanor.

Mario Gila: Lazio’s Most Integral Player?

Since the start of the season, Lazio have had to do without almost every key player, as the injury bug has hardly exempted anyone at Formello. Nevertheless, Mario Gila might be the one player that Sarri would be truly loath to lose.

Week after week, the Spaniard is consolidating his status as one of the best centre-backs in Serie A. In addition to his undisputed defensive prowess, the 25-year-old boasts excellent skills, making him essential in the build-up phase, as he can effortlessly bring the ball out of Lazio’s areas.

Sarri must be praying for the football gods to spare his beloved disciple.