With Maurizio Sarri on his way out, Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino might just be the favorite to land the Lazio job.
Maurizio Sarri Torn Between Napoli & Atalanta
Il Messaggero offers some insight into the Biancocelesti’s managerial search, as the Serie A merry-go-round is about to start. Interestingly, Sarri’s next move could spark a major domino effect, as the 67-year-old prepares to choose between a return to Napoli and a reunion with Cristiano Giuntoli at Atalanta.
The Tuscan manager has asked his two suitors for a few more days so he can sort out his contract termination with Lazio president Claudio Lotito, who should grant him leave following their public and private bickering.
Sarri’s decision could affect AC Milan’s Max Allegri and Bologna’s Vincenzo Italiano. These two profiles are liked by Lotito, but considered too costly. However, they remain serious options for the Napoli bench.
Raffaele Palladino Ready to Negotiate with Lazio
Concerning Lazio, the Roman newspaper believes Palladino could be gaining ground. The 42-year-old took over Atalanta in November and managed to improve the team’s results following the poor start to the season under Ivan Juric. However, the Orobici have already informed him that he won’t be confirmed for next season, as incoming sporting director, Giuntoli, wants to start anew with a different manager.
Therefore, the source believes Palladino could be the ‘easiest’ profile to secure among young Serie A coaches. His agent Giuseppe Riso has already informed Lazio that he would be open to discussing a move.
Thiago Motta Not Keen on Lazio Job
On the other hand, Thiago Motta, who was mentioned as a serious candidate earlier in the week, intends to coach outside Italy, as his agent explained. The 43-year-old would also earn more by sitting out another year thanks to his contract with Juventus, which runs until June 2027.
Sergio Conceicao & Fabio Pisacane in the Background
Sergio Conceicao also has a lucrative contract with Al-Ittihad, so it remains to be seen whether the Biancocelesti can sway him. Finally, Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani has been pushing for Cagliari’s Fabio Pisacane, but the latter’s arrival wouldn’t excite the fanbase, as he’s considered too inexperienced for the job.
Palladino would be good option. His preferred formation is 3-4-2-1. So some changes with roster would be needed.
That’s the biggest concern with him… Lazio’s defense was the lone bright spot this season, but Romagnoli and Gila will be gone.
If you look at all the reported names on CB replacements, they ALL play in a back 4, and are young/developing players, so their experience in a back 3 is limited.
If we’re asking Provstgaard to lead the line, we should be a bit concerned. He’s a good player, but relied heavily on Gila/Romagnoli for support.