News Focus
- Lazio president Claudio Lotito has attacked coach Maurizio Sarri, the players and the club’s supporters
- The criticism follows a 2-0 defeat to Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia final and failure to qualify for Europe
- Lotito accused his team of lacking courage, saying “they soil their shorts” during important matches
- Supporters are currently boycotting games, but the president told them they can “stay away”
- The owner defended his 22-year leadership and plans to build a new stadium in Rome
Claudio Lotito has unleashed a furious attack on everyone at SS Lazio. The club president criticised head coach Maurizio Sarri, his own players, and fans who refuse to attend matches.
The anger comes after a terrible season for the Italian side. Lazio lost the Coppa Italia final 2-0 to Inter Milan last week. The team also failed to reach European competitions for the second year in a row.
Lotito spoke to reporters at a public event. He said Inter did not deserve to win the final. Instead, he blamed his players for making costly mistakes. He pointed to an own goal and poor passing that led to Inter’s second goal.
The president also mentioned the recent loss to AS Roma in the Rome derby. He noted that his team conceded two identical goals from corner kicks. Lotito asked if anyone on the pitch knew how to mark opponents properly.
Lotito saved his strongest words for the players. He said they show no bravery when they walk onto the pitch. He claimed that if they had his courage, they would dominate every match.
The 66-year-old also attacked fans who are staying away from the Stadio Olimpico. He said he has been president for 22 years and won six trophies. Lotito told supporters they can remain at home if they do not want to support the team.
The relationship between Lotito and Sarri is now very tense. The coach disagrees with the club’s plan for buying and selling players. However, Lotito insists that he makes the decisions. He reminded everyone that Sarri has a contract with the club.
Lotito spoke about his plans for the future. He wants to build a new stadium at Flaminio. He also plans to sell shares of the club on the Nasdaq stock market in New York. He believes these moves will bring more money to Lazio.
The club now faces an uncertain summer. The president’s comments suggest big changes could happen soon.