Gennaro Gattuso is poised to become the new manager of Lazio, according to reports from Italy. While the agreement is not yet official, the club appears set to appoint the former Italy national team coach as the successor to Maurizio Sarri.
The expected deal is a two-year contract, with a potential option for a third year, though these details are still being finalized. The appointment follows a period of consideration by Lazio president Claudio Lotito, who ultimately favored Gattuso over other candidates including Davide Ballardini and Marco Baroni. A key factor in the decision was Gattuso’s immediate availability, as he resigned from his post with the Italian national team, unlike some other contenders who remain under contract with other clubs.
Gattuso’s managerial career has included spells with Milan and Napoli in Serie A, as well as stints abroad with Valencia, Olympique Marseille, and Hajduk Split. His last role in the Italian top flight was with Napoli, where he replaced Carlo Ancelotti in 2019 and remained in charge until 2021. He brings a wealth of experience, having managed in diverse footballing environments.
Interestingly, Lotito had previously considered approaching Gattuso in 2019 when Lazio were losing to Atalanta. However, a dramatic second-half comeback, spearheaded by a hat-trick from Ciro Immobile, altered those plans. Now, several years later, the opportunity has resurfaced. Sarri is expected to join Atalanta, completing a significant shift in management for both clubs. This appointment signals a departure from Lazio’s recent managerial direction and could usher in a new era for the Roman club.
