Miroslav Klose, currently the manager of 1. FC Nürnberg, is a potential candidate to become the next manager of S.S. Lazio, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The move would see the former Germany international return to a club where he enjoyed a successful playing career. Lazio are seeking a replacement for Maurizio Sarri, who is widely expected to depart the Stadio Olimpico at the end of the season.
Klose took charge of Nürnberg in March 2023, guiding the club to a 16th-place finish in the 2. Bundesliga last season. Despite recently extending his contract with Nürnberg until 2028 in February, reports suggest the agreement includes a release clause that could facilitate a move to Lazio. The club finished 10th this season, a slight improvement but still short of promotion contention.
During his time as a player, Klose established himself as a Serie A icon with Lazio, scoring 63 goals in 171 appearances across five seasons. He arrived in Rome in 2011 after a successful spell with Bayern Munich, becoming a fan favourite for his prolific goalscoring and work ethic. Klose retired from professional football in 2016 after a brief stint with the New York Cosmos.
While Klose is considered a strong contender, he is not the only manager under consideration by Lazio’s hierarchy. Dino Toppmöller, who previously managed Eintracht Frankfurt, is also reportedly on the shortlist. Toppmöller was dismissed by Frankfurt in April after a disappointing Bundesliga campaign. The Italian club are carefully evaluating their options to find the best possible candidate to lead the team forward.
Sarri’s departure is anticipated following a season where Lazio finished seventh in Serie A, failing to qualify for European competition. The club will be hoping to quickly appoint a new manager to begin preparations for the upcoming campaign and rebuild a competitive squad. Klose’s familiarity with the club and the league could prove advantageous if he is appointed.
