Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri prepares his squad for the crucial Rome derby.
The eternal city is bracing itself for another chapter in one of football`s most passionate rivalries. As the clock ticks down to Sunday`s highly anticipated Rome derby, Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri has revealed his 25-man squad, a roster shaped by both crucial returns and significant absences. The fourth matchday of the 2025-26 Serie A season presents an early, yet pivotal, test for the Biancocelesti, and Sarri`s selections offer a glimpse into his strategic approach.
The Welcome Returns: A Boost for the Biancocelesti
Amidst the usual pre-derby anxieties, the news of several key players returning to fitness will undoubtedly bring a sigh of relief to the Lazio faithful. Defender Patric, an experienced presence at the back, is back in contention. His defensive acumen and versatility could be vital in containing Roma`s attacking threats.
Joining him is midfielder Nicolò Rovella, whose energy and passing range are essential to Sarri`s midfield engine. A player capable of dictating tempo and breaking up play, Rovella`s inclusion significantly strengthens Lazio`s control in the middle of the park. Perhaps the most pleasant surprise, considering his doubt just hours prior, is the return of Dele-Bashiru. His dynamic presence and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively add valuable depth and options to Sarri`s tactical playbook.
Navigating the Absences: Who Steps Up?
However, Sarri`s preparations haven`t been entirely devoid of headaches. The Biancocelesti will be without three notable figures due to injury: Manuel Lazzari, Matías Vecino, and Samuel Gigot. Lazzari`s absence on the right flank deprives Lazio of a potent attacking outlet and defensive workhorse. His pace and crossing ability will be missed, forcing Sarri to consider alternatives like Hysaj or Marusic in that role.
In midfield, Matías Vecino`s powerful presence and goal-scoring threat from deep will be a void to fill. His ability to impose himself physically and provide offensive thrust is a significant loss. This likely opens doors for players like Guendouzi or Cataldi to take on enhanced roles, adding to the pressure on the recovered Rovella.
The defensive line also sees a blow with Gigot`s unavailability. While Patric`s return mitigates some of the concern, Gigot`s absence reduces Sarri`s options at center-back, potentially making the defensive pairing more predictable. These absences will test the depth of Lazio`s squad and the tactical flexibility of their manager.
Sarri`s Strategic Canvas: The Full Squad
With these ins and outs, Sarri has named a full contingent of 25 players, a blend of established veterans and promising talents, all vying for a spot in the starting eleven of one of Italy`s most fiercely contested fixtures. The complete squad list is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: Furlanetto, Mandas, Provedel
- Defenders: Gila, Hysaj, Marusic, Nuno Tavares, Patric, Pellegrini, Provstgaard, Romagnoli
- Midfielders: Belahyane, Cataldi, Dele-Bashiru, Farcomeni, Guendouzi, Pinelli, Rovella
- Forwards: Cancellieri, Castellanos, Dia, Isaksen, Noslin, Pedro, Zaccagni
This squad list highlights a decent array of options across the field, particularly in the attacking department with talents like Zaccagni, Pedro, and Castellanos ready to lead the line. Sarri’s challenge will be to mold these available pieces into a cohesive unit capable of executing his distinctive “Sarriball” philosophy under the immense pressure of a derby.
The Derby della Capitale: More Than Just Three Points
The Derby della Capitale is rarely just about the three points; it`s a battle for bragging rights, pride, and an early psychological advantage in the league. For Lazio, a strong performance and result against their bitter rivals could ignite their season, providing momentum and confidence. Conversely, a stumble could cast a long shadow.
Sarri, known for his meticulous preparation and tactical astuteness, will undoubtedly have a plan to exploit Roma`s weaknesses while shoring up his own ranks. With the recovered players providing timely boosts, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter where every tackle, pass, and decision will be magnified. Football fans worldwide will be watching to see which side of Rome emerges victorious from this intense clash.