Maurizio Sarri departs from Lazio amid struggles, Giovanni Martusciello steps up as new coach

Lazio have made the official announcement concerning Maurizio Sarri's resignation from his position as head coach. Following a series of unfavourable outcomes, with Lazio enduring five defeats in their last six matches, Sarri has decided to step down. This decision comes despite Sarri being at the helm for three seasons and holding a contract that extended to the end of the upcoming season.

Giovanni Martusciello, a name synonymous with Sarri through their shared history at clubs like Empoli, Juventus, and now Lazio, is set to take the reins. Martusciello, who previously led Empoli as head coach during the 2016-17 season—a tenure that saw the Tuscan club's relegation on the season's final day—brings a wealth of experience and insight into Sarri's coaching philosophy, making him a fitting successor.

Martusciello's debut as Lazio's head coach is anticipated this Saturday against Frosinone, marking a new chapter for the team under his leadership. Under Sarri's guidance, Lazio achieved a commendable second place in the Italian league last year, although they finished a significant 16 points behind Napoli, the Serie A champions. However, this season has been less favourable for the capital club, culminating in a 2-1 loss to Udinese on Monday. This defeat marked Lazio's 12th in the league this season, positioning them 11 points adrift of fourth-placed Bologna.

Despite a memorable 1-0 victory against Bayern Munich in the Champions League round of 16's first leg, Lazio could not sustain their momentum, suffering a 3-0 defeat in the return leg in Germany and subsequently being eliminated from the competition. Additionally, a 3-0 loss to Inter Milan in the Super Cup semifinals further dampened their campaign. Nonetheless, Lazio has secured a spot in the Italian Cup semifinals, setting the stage for a poignant encounter against Sarri's former team, Juventus, next month.

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(With AP inputs)