Sarri blasts ‘Serie C level’ Lazio ahead of Olimpico return against Verona

Lazio coach Sarri: ‘Mentality, not tactics, is decisive’

Sarri rejected claims that Lazio’s struggles stem from tactical aspects or formations, insisting the problem lies in energy and approach. “Last year, Lazio did well until we pushed from a mental point of view. It wasn’t about tactics,” he explained, “We must rediscover that energy. The positive signs disappeared too quickly in the first game.”

The coach also urged his players to embrace the atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico and show greater hunger to impress the fans, noting the club have not won at home in Serie A since February. “The desire to give joy to our supporters must be enormous,” he said.

Sarri on the Lazio project and Zaccagni target

Sarri singled out winger Mattia Zaccagni as someone capable of hitting double figures in goals this season if he sharpens his movement, “If he doesn’t reach ten, it means he is doing something wrong. He attacks the spaces and the box too little, and he can improve in that aspect.”

With Pedro’s fitness being monitored and injuries to Vecino, Isaksen and Patric still limiting options, Sarri admitted his line-up will be shaped by condition as much as choice. However, he was clear about the wider project at Lazio, “The club spoke to me about three years of work, starting from a point of difficulty. If we can build seven or eight players of real level, then we will only need three in the market.”