Lazio hires Gattuso as new coach

Lazio has officially named former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach. The Serie A club made this announcement on their official website.

In the statement from Lazio SC on Tuesday, they said, “S.S. Lazio S.p.A. announces that it has appointed Mr. Gennaro Gattuso as Head Coach of the First Team. The Club warmly welcomes its new manager and is confident that his experience, professionalism, and determination will contribute to achieving the Club’s sporting objectives.”

This appointment is a big change for the Roman club after Maurizio Sarri's time in charge ended. Gattuso, who is 48, is known for his tough and disciplined style. He has a strong background as a World Cup-winning midfielder and has managed AC Milan, Napoli, and most recently the Italian national team, which he left after they did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Gattuso is expected to sign a contract for up to two years. He aims to bring more intensity and restore order at a club that has had a tough time lately, missing out on European qualification.

Fans reacted online to the news on Lazio’s official X account. Their responses showed the strong feelings of the Biancocelesti supporters.

Some fans were not happy with the club's direction. One user, #MatteoM96973, wrote, “In the conviction that his experience, professionalism and determination can contribute to the achievement of the club’s sporting objectives. FOR SERIE B IT’S FINE.” Another supporter, #sampaolo71, said, “But wasn’t he supposed to leave Italy, #LotitoOut #Lotitovattene #GattusoOut.”

Others questioned the club’s goals. #CristianoC9636 asked, “But what would the club’s sporting objectives be? The fight for survival?” while #Trattoria_Lazio simply said, “WHICH OBJECTIVES?”.

Even with some doubts from fans, Gattuso has a solid record. He won the Coppa Italia with Napoli. His style, which focuses on high pressing and hard work, is seen as a possible solution for the club’s recent issues.

Lazio is looking to rebuild, especially with financial problems and fan unrest during Sarri’s time. Gattuso knows the environment well since he has visited the training center before as an Italian coach.

For Nigerian international Fisayo Dele-Bashiru at the club, this appointment means a new challenge. He has to fight for his place in midfield under a coach known for demanding high energy and physicality.

Gattuso will start preparing for the new season soon. There are high hopes that his determination can help Lazio get back into European competitions under president Claudio Lotito.