Lazio Veteran Set for Free Agency After Failing to Receive Contract Renewal

Matias Vecino has seemingly played his last match for Lazio as the management opted against maintaining his services.

The Background

The Biancocelesti are still feeling the effects of a devastating ending to what began as a promising campaign. At one point, Lazio were considered among the favourites to earn a place in the UEFA Champions League next season based on the odds of some of the best social sportsbooks, but everything collapsed in the final hurdles.

Marco Baroni Leaving Lazio

Marco Baroni eventually failed to lead the team towards any European competition following a disappointing 7th-place finish, and all major sources in Italian football expect him to make way for a new manager, who might just be a returning Maurizio Sarri.

However, the shockwaves won’t only spark a managerial change, but significant changes in the squad are also expected, as Vecino could be the first player to depart, and surely not the last.

Lazio Didn’t Offer Vecino a New Contract

According to Corriere dello Sport (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), the midfielder has yet to receive a call from the club, suggesting that the management plans to run down his contract, which will expire at the end of June.

The Roman newspaper reveals that the veteran was left disappointed, as he hasn’t even received a phone call by now. The Uruguayan is hoping to linger at Formello for at least another year, but it appears that his time at Lazio has already reached an end.

Three Suitors Vying for Matias Vecino

But the good news for the experienced midfielder is that he still has several suitors around Europe. He can embark on a new experience in Spain with Real Betis who have been building a promising squad, or perhaps join Benfica and compete for the Portuguese league title. Moreover, Como are reportedly offering him the opportunity to extend his stay in Italian football.

Vecino’s Serie A Resume

Vecino has been plying his trade in Serie A since signing for Fiorentina in January 2013. He went on to represent Empoli, Cagliari and Inter Milan before joining Lazio on a free transfer in the summer of 2022. Since then, he has been an important member of the squad, despite playing second fiddle to Nicolo Rovella and Matteo Guendouzi this season.

Vecino’s campaign was derailed by a lengthy injury in the middle of the season, but he still went on to make 29 appearances in all competitions, contributing two goals and five assists.