Lazio name Gennaro Gattuso as manager following Italy World Cup failure
Former Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has been appointed as the new manager of Lazio, returning to club football two months after resigning from the national team following their failure to qualify for the World Cup.
The 48-year-old takes over at the Stadio Olimpico after Maurizio Sarri departed the Roman club at the end of May.
Under Sarri, the team endured a frustrating Serie A campaign, finishing ninth in the table.
National team fallout
The fiery former midfielder steps back into domestic management following a disastrous spell with the Azzurri.
He stepped down by mutual consent in April after a devastating play-off final defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
That result condemned the nation to miss out on yet another major international tournament.
Hierarchy overhauled
The ensuing fallout triggered widespread resignations across the Italian football hierarchy.
Federation president Gabriele Gravina and national team delegation head Gianluigi Buffon both vacated their roles within 24 hours of the manager’s exit.
Following the national humiliation, sports minister Andrea Abodi publicly demanded a complete overhaul of leadership within the sport.
Return to familiar territory
Despite the recent international setback, the former World Cup winner boasts extensive experience across Europe’s top divisions.
His managerial CV includes notable stints with AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, and Marseille.
The Biancocelesti board are confident their new appointment can stabilise the club and drive them back up the domestic standings.
The club welcomes the new coach with satisfaction, believing that his experience, professionalism, and determination can contribute to the achievement of the club’s sporting goals.
