Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri still needs to decide whether Thomas Strakosha or Pepe Reina will be the starting goalkeeper for this season.
As reported by Italian radio broadcaster Radiosei (via La Lazio Siamo Noi) earlier today, Sarri is still unsure which of the two will be the club’s main starting goalkeeper for the upcoming Serie A season. In the six pre-season friendlies so far, the two players have alternated between the posts.
Last year Reina managed to undermine Strakosha and remained the starter for the rest of the season, leaving the Albanian shot-stopper frustrated on the sidelines.
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Reina has already been coached by Sarri in the past at Napoli, where he made 139 appearances under the 62-year-old Italian coach. The Spanish veteran knows Sarri’s system well and is better with the ball at his feet.
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Strakosha guarantees better shot-stopping, having a quicker reaction speed, and is a younger option, meaning that he could remain a part of the project for years to come. His contract expires next year in 2022 though, so a contract renewal may be needed to ensure his number one status.
Lazio’s upcoming pre-season friendly against Sassuolo on Saturday may give an indication of Sarri’s choice.
