Sarri Aims New Digs at Lazio Hierarchy: ”Always in Year Zero, They’re Not Even Close”

Despite the victory over Hellas Verona, Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri wasn’t in a pleasant mood, as he took several swipes at the club’s hierarchy. The Biancocelesti arrived at the Bentegodi with a depleted squad, as well as two new players who had only arrived in recent days.

Maurizio Sarri Highlights Lazio Selection Crisis

In the absence of sporting director Angelo Fabiani, the manager was asked to address the media ahead of the match (via Il Messaggero), in yet another task that left him gloomy. However, he took the opportunity to explain how fielding Kenneth Taylor in the starting lineup after one training session illustrates the club’s current crisis.

For me, being here is an act of violence, so let’s make it quick. I have my objectives very clear in my head: to build a team that, with a couple of additions, can become a higher-level side. What baffles me is that at Lazio, every year you get the feeling it’s year zero all over again.

This is the first time in my life that I’ve thrown on a player who’s had just one training session with me: that says a lot about the difficulties we’re facing. I only know Taylor partially.

Sarri Dedicates Verona Win to Loyal Lazio Fanbase

Lazio ended up winning a closely-contested match thanks to Victor Nelson’s late own-goal. Sarri then dedicated the victory to the travelling supporters who made him and the players feel at home.

When I walked onto the pitch I was taken aback by our fans: did you see the Lazio Curva? I was moved. Dedicating these three points to them is deeply satisfying today. I also saw Alen (Boskic) and got emotional — I was a huge admirer of his.

The Most Difficult Season in Sarri’s Managerial Career

The 67-year-old admitted this has been the most difficult campaign of his career, but this has only solidified the bond between him and his players.

A transfer ban, injuries, suspensions, new players to integrate: this is the toughest campaign of my career. In Serie A I’ve never gone through so many difficulties. But I still go to training every day with pleasure.

Who would I sign if I had a magic wand? I’ve grown attached to my players, so I’d focus on improving them.

Taylor, Ratkov, Gila & Romagnoli

Sarri reckoned he needs more time to get to know the club’s two new signings, Taylor and Petar Ratkov, while reserving praise for his defensive duo, Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli.

I need to understand their strengths and weaknesses to put them in the best conditions to perform. For now I can only talk about small impressions. Taylor might struggle less because he has more experience in Europe.

Gila has the potential to reach a very high level and the good fortune of playing alongside Romagnoli, who knows how to lead the defence exceptionally well. He needs to strip away a few frills in build-up play, then he’ll become outstanding.

Player Ratings: Hellas Verona 0-1 Lazio – Lazzari the Unlikely Super-Sub

Sarri Responds to Lazio President Claudio Lotito

The head coach was asked to comment on the words of club president Claudio Lotito, who recently insisted that the management is responsible for choosing the new signings, while Sarri only has to coach them.

Did they get it right on the market? In some roles they’re close, in others, not even remotely. I’d need a midfielder who combines quantity, quality and a few goals. I fear he might cost around eighty million, though.

Sarri’s Summer Requests

Nevertheless, Sarri believes that the hierarchy can still make things right by making three top recruitments next summer.

I have regrets about many situations I’ve seen this season. But I’m fortunate to have players who make me happy to go to the training ground. If I can repay them, I will — by improving them and getting to the end of the season with eight or nine players already ready for a higher level.

That way, if the club helps us in the summer with three strong additions, we can make a step up. Let’s leave refereeing aside. In my opinion, it’s cost us a lot.