Luis Alberto backs Sarri’s Lazio progress despite difficult season | OneFootball

Former Lazio midfielder Luis Alberto believes the Biancocelesti are showing clear signs of improvement under Maurizio Sarri, despite the difficulties that have shaped their current campaign.

Speaking in a wide-ranging interview with Fanpage.it, the Spaniard admitted he was not surprised by Lazio’s struggles, suggesting internal issues were always likely to surface. However, he insisted performances have been more encouraging than results might suggest.

ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 08: Matteo Guendouzi and Luis Alberto speacks during the Serie A TIM match at Stadio Olimpico on October 08, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“I’m not surprised,” Luis Alberto said. “I knew something like this could happen. I speak often with Cataldi, with Patric, with Mario Gila, with Pedro. I’ve also spoken to Taty. But as I always say, they can’t do much, the situation is what it is.”

Luis Alberto: ‘Lazio have improved a lot’

Despite that context, the former playmaker pointed to Lazio’s resilience in recent matches as evidence of progress. He highlighted games where Sarri’s side remained competitive even in adversity, underlining a growing mental strength within the squad.

PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri looks on prior to the Serie A match at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“I’m sure they could easily have won or drawn the match in Milan,” he continued. “Anything could have happened. I also watched them against Parma when they went down to nine men they stayed in the game and in the end they won. Overall, I think they’ve improved a lot.”

Luis Alberto’s comments reflect a broader belief that Lazio’s underlying performances are stronger than their league position suggests, with Sarri’s work beginning to show despite an uneven season and off-field complications.