Luis Alberto Would Only Return to Lazio if ‘This Person Leaves’

Former Lazio playmaker Luis Alberto hasn’t closed the door on a return to Formello, but it hinges on Claudio Lotito’s fate.

The Background

The Spaniard arrived at the Italian capital side in 2016 and gradually cemented himself as a key player at the club. The midfielder upset the sports betting odds by lifting three trophies with the Biancocelesti: One Coppa Italia and a couple of Italian Super Cups.

During the 2023/24 season, Alberto’s rapport with the hierarchy had soured, and he ended up publicly requesting a transfer as he was unhappy with the situation at the club, especially following Maurizio Sarri’s resignation in March.

The club eventually granted him his wish, selling him to Al-Duhail in the summer of 2024. He has since moved to fellow Qatari club, Al-Wakrah, making the transfer in January 2026.

Luis Alberto on Potential Lazio Return

In an interview with DAZN (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Alberto was asked about the possibility of a return to Lazio one day. The 33-year-old didn’t rule out the scenario, but noted that it remains unlikely as long as Lotito reigns supreme at the club, albeit without naming the increasingly unpopular patron.

A return to Lazio? Maybe (laughs). We know it’s difficult if a certain person is still there (laughs).

The fans’ protest? I was saying it even before I left. I knew what was happening inside Lazio, and in the interviews I gave, I always said what I thought. Now, after two years, everyone tells me I was telling the truth.

Luis Alberto & Maurizio Sarri

Alberto had a complex relationship with Sarri, filled with highs and lows. Nevertheless, he remains nostalgic about the time he spent under the 67-year-old Tuscan.

I miss him a lot. I learned so much from him, just as I did from Inzaghi. Now that I’m starting my coaching course, I’m fortunate to have learned a great deal from both of them.

Spain’s World Cup Chances

The playmaker discussed his nation’s chances of winning the World Cup after lifting the European Championship two years ago. While he believes La Roja have a formidable squad, he insists that France remain the ultimate favorites.

Winning is extremely difficult. In this World Cup it’s even harder because it’s the longest one. Still, I have faith in Spain. They have top-level players and a strong group that has been together for a long time.

They also have one of the best players in the world (Yamal) and, in my opinion, the best midfield in football. It won’t be easy to go all the way. I see France as the favourites, and Argentina could also have a great tournament. We’ll see, one match at a time.