Lazio Set for 4-3-3 Return with Four Players Vying to Replace Zaccagni | OneFootball

Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri will reportedly reinstall his favorite 4-3-3 formation in the upcoming fixture against Atalanta.

The Background

With five midfielders unavailable, the 66-year-old was recently forced to shift to a 4-2-3-1 system, as he only had Danilo Cataldi and Toma Basic at his disposal. While the change paid dividends in Genoa, with Lazio prevailing by three unanswered goals, the team looked slightly unbalanced in the hectic 3-3 draw against Torino.

Maurizio Sarri to Revert to 4-3-3

According to Il Messaggero, Sarri is planning to return to his tried-and-tested system, now that the midfield crisis has eased. While Nicolo Rovella will remain out with a groin problem, Matteo Guendouzi will return from a two-match suspension, so he’ll be expected to start alongside Basic and Catlaldi.

Matteo Guendouzi (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Moreover, Matias Vecino could finally return from injury. The Uruguayan and Reda Belahyane would offer the manager options on the bench, while it remains to be seen if Fisayo Dele-Bashiru will recover in time and get reinstated in the Serie A squad.

Who Will Replace Mattia Zaccagni in Atalanta vs Lazio

Nevertheless, Sarri’s biggest dilemma is how to replace his injured captain, Mattia Zaccagni. The winger has suffered a low-grade muscle injury, and will be hoping to return for the clash against Juventus on October 26. But in the meantime, the coach doesn’t have a clear replacement on the left flank.

Pedro & Gustav Isaksen

As the source explains, 38-year-old Pedro might struggle to cope with the pace of the game in Bergamo if given a starting role on the wing. Moreover, Gustav Isaksen primarily plays on the right side (a role now occupied by the in-form Matteo Cancellieri), and has yet to regain his optimal condition following his long mononucleosis ordeal.

Tijjani Noslin & Nuno Tavares Options

Lazio Sporting Director Angelo Fabiani has been pitching for Tijjani Noslin, who was behind the team’s last-minute equalizer against Torino, but Sarri might not be fully convinced. The newspaper also mentions a ‘crazy’ idea that would see Nuno Tavares fielded in a more advanced role. However, this would require Luca Pellegrini to recover in time and regain his role at left-back.