Lazio Set for New Formation as Gattuso Abandons Sarri’s 4-3-3

New Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso will launch a new tactical formation, distancing himself from his predecessor’s system.

The Background

Last season, Maurizio Sarri restored his favorite 4-3-3 formation upon his return to the club. However, the 67-year-old left the club following a troublesome campaign and a strained relationship with Lazio president Claudio Lotito. The Tuscan has already been unveiled as Atalanta’s new head coach, while Gattuso has replaced him at Formello.

Although the official announcement might not arrive until July, the Calabrian took the reins several weeks ago, and had already been plotting with Lotito and sporting director Angelo Fabiani for next season.

Lazio to Play 4-2-3-1 Under Gennaro Gattuso

According to Il Messaggero (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Gattuso will immediately launch a new formation, resorting to the 4-2-3-1 system deployed by Marco Baroni during the 2024/25 campaign to a great effect, at least before the late-season collapse.

Who Will Be Lazio’s Attacking Midfielder?

The shift from 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 shouldn’t be dramatic, but it does beg a question regarding the identity of the attacking midfielder. The source believes Tijjani Noslin could be tested in this role, as Gattuso doesn’t consider him suitable for the striker role.

His Dutch compatriot, Kenneth Taylor, is another option, but deploying the former Ajax star in a more advanced role would create a vacancy in midfield alongside Nicolo Rovella.

Lazio are also working on recruiting youngsters capable of filling this role, especially Bayern Munich’s Jonathan Asp Jensen, who is in advanced talks to join the club. They have also been linked with Manchester City’s Charlie Gray.