Claudio Lotito Insists Lazio Is Not for Sale: “It Will Always Stay With Me”

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has no intention of selling the club, despite the growing friction between him and the fanbase.

The Background

The Biancocelesti patron took charge of the Biancocelesti in 2004, when the club was on the verge of bankruptcy, a fact that he rarely misses the chance to underscore, especially amid challenging times. But while the 67-year-old had always taken pride in his ability to balance the club’s accounts, last summer’s transfer ban was a major blow to his management.

Lazio’s Transfer Ban Hampered Their Chances of Challenging This Season

Not only have the flaws in Lazio’s business model come to light, but the club was also unable to make any new signings. So while their rivals were strengthening their squads, Maurizio Sarri inherited virtually the same team that was at Marco Baroni’s disposal last season. Therefore, fans and observers were quick to rule Lazio out of the battle for the top spots in Serie A. This was also encapsulated by the odds of the most trusted bookmakers, including the ones listed at CBS Sports soccer betting guide.

Lotito Refuses to Sell Lazio

Nevertheless, Lotito is notorious for his defiant and stubborn nature. Hence, he has once again reiterated to stay put at Lazio. In his interview with the Dire news agency (via Calcio e Finanza), the patron insisted that the club is not for sale.

I’ve never thought about selling. Lazio is not for sale. What Arab fund? Lazio will always be with me. The club has €300 million in real estate assets, €350 million in player assets.

I control a club that has been in healthy financial situation for 22 years. It’s worth €850 million. I haven’t asked anyone for anything. Do you think that I need the money? I certainly don’t.

Lotito on Lazio’s Serie A Standing & Roma’s Scudetto Chances

Lazio may have recovered from a rough start to the season, but they currently lie in eighth place in the standings. Nevertheless, Lotito feels it’s a decent result considering the circumstances, while heaping praise on Sarri’s work.

We’re holding our own in the league despite all the adversities: injuries, the mess. Sarri is a quality coach, a responsible and serious person.

Am I worried about Roma? No, but for goodness sake. In 17 years, I’ve won six trophies. Can they win the Scudetto? It’s part of the game… But we’re just getting started; the season is still long. Last term, Lazio were 15 points above Roma at one point.