Maurizio Sarri held his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s home game against Milan, and the Lazio boss was in a candid and thoughtful mood, touching on tactical matters, injury news and even offering a wry comment on his potentially envious rival Massimiliano Allegri.
The return of fans to the Stadio Olimpico after a period of declining attendances is clearly a source of motivation for Sarri, who rarely hides his affection for Lazio fans.
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“Myself and the players are very happy to play in front of our people and a full stadium,” he said, via LaLazio Siamo Noi.
“That’s a big motivator for us.”
He also revealed that he planned to visit the North Stand before the game, but after fans issued personal invitations, he usually avoided visiting the North Stand out of respect for the players.
“The fact that they wanted to say hi to me means a lot. I think I’ll be there tomorrow.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 9: Daniele Maldini and his Lazio teammates celebrate after scoring during the Serie A match between Lazio and American Sassuolo at Stadio Olimpico on March 9, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paul Bruno/Getty Images)
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Lazio coach Sarri anticipates Milan threat
Sarri’s assessment of the tactical challenge posed by Milan was spot on.
“Milan have clear characteristics, they can hurt you even if they can’t seem to control the game. Excellent technical and physical qualities, devastating acceleration. We can’t give them open spaces.”
He then made a counterintuitive but poignant observation that will resonate with anyone who has witnessed Lazio’s struggles in transition.
“When you play against Milan, the most dangerous moment is when we have the ball.”
Set-pieces have become a structural problem for Lazio and Sarri was honest about why. “Without Vecino and Guendouzi, dead balls are a real problem now,” he said. “Having to change the formation also means changing the positioning of players at set pieces, none of which makes it easier.”
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In terms of injured players, Alessio Romagnoli remains a doubt and will be assessed on Sunday morning, while both Patrick and Taylor have been trialled in training as Sarri looks to finalize his selection.
Asked what he might envy about Allegri, the Lazio coach smiled. “Allegri manages the highest-paid club in Italy and they can afford important players. You envy things, but that’s part of the game. What does he envy me for? Ask him,” he said with a smile.
Sarri weighed his future. He acknowledged that several players are out of contract at the end of the season and another transitional summer could be on the horizon. “I have a contract. If the club is not happy or I am not happy, we will talk. But there was no discussion today.”
Reading between the lines, the coach remains loyal but is keeping a close eye on how the club intends to rebuild.