Sarri ‘philosophy’ in battle with Lazio squad options

“It has been a difficult season with 45 injuries, so we had to make do, because inevitably you’re going to drop points when missing players like Zaccagni and Rovella for long periods.

“It was a reconstruction campaign, going from the older figures to young players who should provide the structure for the team in future seasons.”

Adam Marusic, Ivan Provedel, Nicolò Rovella, Samuel Gigot and Alessio Furlanetto didn’t make the trip, with Daniel Maldini back for a spot on the bench.

Taty Castellanos was sold in January, but there was no real replacement, as Petar Ratkov is barely used.

“In Maurizio’s philosophy, he prepares a player who drops deeper and works with the midfield, like Daniel Maldini. So he has used Maldini more.”

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Daniel Maldini of Lazio gestures during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

There has been tension around Lazio in recent months, with the fans often leaving the Stadio Olimpico during their boycott in protest against President Claudio Lotito’s strategy.

How can that split be healed for the good of the team?

“With hard work and sacrifice, we can all work together including those around Lazio, using common sense to get back to normality.”

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Maurizio Sarri head coach SS Lazio celebrates a victory after the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

This is always an emotional game for Sarri, who was the Napoli coach from 2015 to 2018, famously born in the city before moving to Tuscany, so declared himself a supporter of the club.