Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas is reportedly displeased with his situation at the club, so the two parties have now delayed their negotiations over his contract extension.
The Background
The Biancocelesti snapped up the 23-year-old’s services from OFI Crete in the summer of 2023. Last season, he had his big break when Ivan Provedel suffered an injury in March, so the Greek filled in admirably between the spots for several months, convincing the management of his credentials.
Designated Cup Goalkeeper
Nevertheless, Provedel has been the ultimate first choice for Marco Baroni this season. Even with the former Spezia man enduring a skid, the manager continues to back him. On the other hand, Mandas is only featuring in the UEFA Europa League and the Coppa Italia.
Christos Mandas No Longer Happy at Lazio
According to Il Messaggero (via Calciomercato), the Greece international is unhappy with his lack of playing time, as he expected to collect more minutes this season, especially with Provedel in such poor form. The source adds that this situation has caused a rift between the club and the player’s entourage, as their relationship is no longer as idyllic as it once was.
The Status Quo
Hence, the two parties have decided to postpone their talks over a contract extension for a later date, while a decision over the custodian’s future is expected towards the end of the season.
In the meantime, Mandas remains one of the lowest earners at the club with a yearly net salary of €180,000. The player’s current deal is set to expire in June 2028.
Honestly how do u keep provedel in the post when he keeps costing us goals and mandas warms the bench.. If there is no competition in the goal post, what’s the use of having mandas…then sell him
Agree, Ivan’s first season was extraordinary. But the last 2 seasons he made a lot of errors which costed us dearly. Let’s not forget his dramatic form as of late including the match against Napoli. I think he is starting to feel a little comfortable. We should bench him and let Mandas start. Perhaps that will hopefully wake him up to start perform better.
Sadly, both comments above have strong truth and Mandas needs more respect. I get Baronis side, but he can’t defend Ivan at this point and he has got someone equal and keen. Give Mandas the gloves to get Provedel back on track and we’ll see in the future.
By in the future I mean this: Either Mandas experience will significantly improve and be ready to replace Provedel by next season or be sold for serious money, either way, he needs more visibility and so one of the options will be fulfilled. If this wakes up Provedel from recent issues I am happy to keep him and make a huge profit on the youngster.
But are we surprised? How many talents came and weren’t given playing time? It seems more like the norm rather than the exception..
Give him a chance!