Official: Former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso officially takes over as Lazio manager

Lazio officially announced on Tuesday that Gennaro Gattuso will succeed Maurizio Sarri as the first-team manager, effective immediately. His term is expected to last until June 30, 2028, with a one-year extension clause automatically activated if certain targets are achieved.

According to a follow-up report by the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, one of the conditions for Gattuso to trigger his contract extension option is helping Lazio finish in the top 12 of Serie A. Other reports indicate that his annual salary at Lazio is €1.5 million.

The 48-year-old Gattuso is the midfield core of Italy's golden generation, playing a crucial role in the national team's victory in the 2006 World Cup. After retiring, he coached several teams including Palermo, OFI Crete, Pisa, AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Marseille, and Hajduk, and led Napoli to the Italian Cup title in the 2019/20 season.

With Italy failing to qualify for the World Cup for three consecutive editions, Gattuso was officially sacked in April 2026. His appointment as manager of Lazio signifies his return to the helm after a two-month hiatus.

Regarding Gattuso's arrival, Lazio issued a statement saying, "The club warmly welcomes the new manager and believes that his experience, professionalism, and determination will help the club achieve its sporting goals."

Following the appointment of Gennaro Gattuso as head coach, Lazio will focus on restructuring the club's management. According to reports from multiple media outlets, including *La Gazzetta dello Sport* and *Il Messaggero*, Lazio president Claudio Lotito has re-established contact with club legend Angelo Peruzzi, planning to invite him back as technical director.

The Italian newspaper *La Gazzetta dello Sport* also learned that the two sides met about a week ago at a villa in San Sebastiáno. Gattuso also supports Peruzzi's return, but Peruzzi himself has not yet made a final decision.

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