Lazio and Maurizio Sarri have agreed to terminate their contract two years ahead of the deadline. Once official, this accord will pave the way for two managerial appointments.
Inevitable Divorce
The head coach returned to Formello for a second stint last summer, initially signing a two-year deal with an option for a third. But when the club was slapped with a transfer ban, Claudio Lotito and Co. rewarded Sarri, for agreeing to stick around, by changing it to a three-year contract in July.
However, things swiftly turned sour between the duo, who clashed in public over several matters, including the quality of the players, the transfer market plans, the coach’s authority at the club, and even the fan protest. Sarri all but confirmed his imminent exit following the win over Pisa on the final day of the season.
Lazio & Sarri Have Agreed to Part Ways
While some sources suggested that negotiations between the two parties could be complicated, Alfredo Pedulla insisted that this was never the case. As the Italian journalist explains, Sarri and Lotito were both determined to reach a resolution as rapidly as possible, and an agreement was found on Monday afternoon after hours of discussions involving lawyers and club officials.
The transfer market expert, who is also a good friend of Sarri, reveals that only the signatures are missing at this point.
Sarri to Atalanta, Gattuso to Lazio
The two parties are in a hurry because they have agreements in place ahead of next season. The Tuscan coach will sign for Atalanta, reuniting with former Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli. As for Lazio, they will appoint Gennaro Gattuso as their manager.
The former AC Milan midfielder will pen a one-year deal with an option for a second. He will earn €1.5 million per season.