New Lazio signing Ratkov: ‘Sarri is a great coach; Milinkovic-Savic encouraged me to join’ | OneFootball

New Lazio signing Petar Ratkov has spoken of his excitement after completing his move to the Biancocelesti, hailing Maurizio Sarri as a “great coach” and revealing that Sergej Milinkovic-Savic played a role in encouraging him to join the club.

Speaking to Lazio’s official channels, the Serbian striker made clear his ambition from the outset. “I’ve arrived at a really important club, one of the biggest in Italy, with incredible players and a great coach,” Ratkov said. “Everything feels perfect. I can’t wait to start training and playing.”

MUNICH, GERMANY – JUNE 20: Petar Ratkov of Serbia looks on as he inspects the pitch prior to the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Slovenia and Serbia at Munich Football Arena on June 20, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Lazio sign Ratkov from Salzburg: ‘Sarri is an excellent coach’

Ratkov outlined clear personal and collective targets for his first season in Serie A. “My goals are to stay fit, score plenty of goals, help Lazio improve and finish in the top six. I also came here to grow as a player and as a person. For a young striker who wants to develop and score, Serie A is one of the best leagues in the world.”

On Sarri, Ratkov admitted he has yet to speak directly with the coach but was full of praise. “I haven’t spoken to him yet, but he’s an excellent coach and that’s really important for a young player,” he said.

PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The 22-year-old also revealed he sought advice from former Lazio star Milinkovic-Savic. “I spoke to Sergej and he told me everything here is fantastic – the city, the club. He said Lazio is one of the best teams in Italy.”

Ratkov ended with a message to supporters: “Thank you for all the messages. I promise I’ll give everything to make you happy and help Lazio grow.”