Maurizio Sarri did not hide his irritation following Lazio’s goalless draw away to Cagliari, a result that stretches their winless run in Serie A to three matches. The Aquile have now recorded two draws and a 2-0 defeat to Atalanta in that sequence, while also failing to score in back-to-back fixtures.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Sarri explained that his displeasure stemmed from his side’s approach rather than the outcome itself. He pointed out that the venue has proved difficult for other top teams, noting that Juventus and Roma had both recently been beaten there. However, he criticised his players for slowing the tempo instead of circulating the ball quickly, insisting that the match required more dynamic movement.
Opportunities were limited overall. Lazio came closest late on, particularly after Yerry Mina’s dismissal, when Elia Caprile denied a Danilo Cataldi free kick. Sarri felt his team became more threatening down the left in the final 20 minutes after introducing players who attacked that flank, but argued that the change should have been made earlier.
Attacking struggles and fitness concerns
The Biancocelesti’s lack of cutting edge remains a concern. Daniel Maldini was again deployed as a False 9 but struggled to influence proceedings. Sarri acknowledged that certain player characteristics complicate matters, suggesting Maldini is not suited to making runs into open spaces, while Gustav Isaksen is more effective with off-the-ball movement.
Mattia Zaccagni, meanwhile, is still working his way back to full condition after injury. Sarri underlined that the squad has repeatedly faced absences lasting a month or more, meaning returning players require time on the pitch to regain sharpness. Despite these challenges, he highlighted that Lazio have not lost away from home since November, recalling a late penalty decision that went against them in that period.
Rovella injury adds to mounting absences
The evening brought further bad news when Nicolò Rovella was forced off after landing awkwardly on his shoulder. Sarri confirmed the midfielder has suffered a fractured clavicle, describing the campaign as “cursed” due to persistent setbacks.
Lazio were already missing six players through injury, including Pedro, Mario Gila, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot, although Alessio Romagnoli returned from suspension. Sarri concluded that the team are operating in a continual state of emergency as they attempt to navigate an increasingly demanding season.