Lazio have officially reappointed Maurizio Sarri as head coach after parting ways with Marco Baroni.
Lazio Confirm Sarri’s Return and Baroni’s Exit
Sarri returns to manage Lazio just over a year after resigning from the same role. The club announced his return with a two-year contract, including an option for an additional season, while confirming the departure of Baroni.
Baroni’s exit follows a late-season collapse that saw Lazio drop out of European qualification. A short club statement thanked him for his “professionalism and commitment,” but the writing had been on the wall after a dismal final weekend of the 2024–25 campaign.
Sarri’s reappointment marks a dramatic yet familiar twist in the club’s turbulent year, as Lazio look to restore direction and identity with a coach who already knows the squad well — as well as the expectations of the club.
Why Lazio Have Turned Back to Sarri
This marks Sarri’s second stint with Lazio after managing them from June 2021 to March 2024, resigning after a run of poor results, culminating in a 2–1 loss to Udinese.
He was replaced by Igor Tudor, who would go on to resign himself just months later. Baroni was next to take the helm, but his tenure ended in disappointment with a 1–0 defeat to Lecce on the final day of the 2024–25 season.
That loss left Lazio in seventh place, outside the European qualification spots and behind local rivals Roma — a result that proved too damaging to ignore.
Now, with Sarri back in charge, Lazio’s goal is clear: a return to Europe and a restored sense of identity. His track record of instilling tactical discipline and creating high-possession, pressing teams offers the promise of stability after a season of upheaval.
What Lazio Said About Maurizio Sarri’s Comeback
In an official statement, Lazio confirmed, “S.S. Lazio is pleased to announce the return of Maurizio Sarri at the helm of the First Team. After the experience that began in 2021, the Tuscan coach returns to wear the Biancocelesti colours, recalled by an uninterrupted bond with the club, with the fans and with a team that has been able to express their playing style and togetherness under his guidance.”
Club president Claudio Lotito also commented, “Maurizio Sarri has returned home. His return is a choice from the heart. We want to resume a journey that interrupted too soon. Together, we can bring back enthusiasm, identity, and ambition. Welcome back to your home, Commander.”
What’s Next for Lazio and Sarri in 2025–26?
The upcoming season is expected to be a major test for both Sarri and Lazio. The squad will likely require reinforcements to challenge for Champions League qualification once again.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if the club can finally deliver consistency under Sarri’s leadership. For those tracking Lazio’s European qualification hopes or Serie A odds, several of the best offshore sportsbooks already have futures markets available.
