Lazio have officially appointed former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the first team, the Serie A club announced.
According to the official statement from Lazio SC Website on Tuesday, “S.S. Lazio S.p.A. announces that it has appointed Mr. Gennaro Gattuso as Head Coach of the First Team. The Club warmly welcomes its new manager and is confident that his experience, professionalism, and determination will contribute to achieving the Club’s sporting objectives”.
The appointment marks a significant shift for the Roman club following the end of Maurizio Sarri’s tenure. Gattuso, 48, brings a combative and disciplined style forged from his playing days as a World Cup-winning midfielder and managerial spells at AC Milan, Napoli, and most recently the Italian national team, which he left after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The former Milan and Napoli boss is expected to sign a contract running for up to two years, aiming to inject intensity and restore order at a club that has struggled in recent seasons, missing out on European qualification.
Online reactions to the announcement on Lazio’s official X account were mixed, reflecting the passion of the Biancocelesti faithful.
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Many fans expressed frustration over the club’s direction. One user, #MatteoM96973, wrote “In the conviction that his experience, professionalism and determination can contribute to the achievement of the club’s sporting objectives. FOR SERIE B IT’S FINE.” Supporter #sampaolo71 lamented, “But wasn’t he supposed to leave Italy, #LotitoOut #Lotitovattene #GattusoOut.”
Despite the scepticism from sections of the fanbase, Gattuso’s track record includes winning the Coppa Italia with Napoli, and his high-pressing, no-nonsense approach is seen by the hierarchy as a potential remedy for the club’s recent inconsistencies.
The move comes as Lazio seeks to rebuild amid financial constraints and supporter unrest that marked Sarri’s tenure. Gattuso is already familiar with the environment, having visited the training center previously in his capacity as an Italian coach.
For Nigerian international Fisayo Dele-Bashiru at the club, the appointment introduces a new challenge as he fights for his place in midfield under a coach known for demanding relentless energy and physicality.
Gattuso is set to begin preparations for the new season, with expectations high that his determination can help Lazio return to European contention under President Claudio Lotito.
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