Key Takeaways:
- Lazio formally confirmed Gennaro Gattuso as head coach this afternoon
- The 48-year-old replaces Maurizio Sarri, who has moved to Atalanta
- Gattuso’s most recent position was with Italy, having left on April 3 after a World Cup play-off loss
Gattuso Seals Lazio Role
Gennaro Gattuso has now been officially named as Lazio’s new head coach, following weeks of mounting speculation after the former Italy head coach was spotted at the club’s training complex.
The ex-midfielder, aged 48, began discussions with Lazio’s management and President Claudio Lotito at the Formello facility in Rome on June 3, focusing on potential transfer targets and strategy for the coming campaign. Reports indicate that the agreement was reached as early as May 25, yet the club only publicly announced Gattuso’s appointment this afternoon.
Benvenuto, Mister 🤝🩵#AvantiLazio pic.twitter.com/n9P3dkIYuP
— S.S.Lazio (@OfficialSSLazio) June 23, 2026
Lazio’s Announcement and Leadership Change
Lazio stated: “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.”
Gattuso, who is thought to have signed a two-year contract, steps in for Maurizio Sarri. Sarri has now taken up a new role with Atalanta.
Gattuso’s Managerial Journey
This appointment marks Gattuso’s return to club management after his resignation as Italy’s coach on April 3. He left the national team position following a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualifying play-offs.
Rino Gattuso’s coaching career began at FC Sion in 2013. Since then, he has held managerial posts at Palermo, OFI Crete, Pisa, Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Olympique Marseille, and Hajduk Split. His latest venture with Italy, which began in June 2025, concluded in under a year. He oversaw six victories and two defeats during his brief tenure.
