<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ac-milan/">AC Milan</a> finds itself at a critical juncture. With Paulo Fonseca under pressure following a string of disappointing results, the Rossoneri may soon need to appoint a new head coach. While the club’s leadership, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic and CEO Giorgio Furlani, has shown tentative support for Fonseca, failing to win in the next several games could lead to drastic changes. Four high-profile names—Xavi Hernandez,&nbsp;Massimiliano Allegri,&nbsp;Roberto Mancini, and&nbsp;Maurizio Sarri—have surfaced as potential replacements.



This potential shift in leadership has raised questions about how it would affect Milan’s star players, including&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/christian-pulisic/">Christian Pulisic</a>, who has been in strong form this season. Each of the rumored candidates brings a unique tactical philosophy that could influence Pulisic’s role and impact at the club.



<h2>Who are the candidates to replace Fonseca?</h2>



<h5>Xavi Hernandez</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241220_WST_545000_xavi-milan-1200x675_9b9f7474.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="xavi milan" class="wp-image-545048" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142842/xavi-milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



The former Barcelona coach is reportedly <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/from-barcelona-to-ac-milan-champions-league-winner-and-lionel-messis-ex-teammate-set-to-lead-christian-pulisics-new-milan-era/">in advanced talks with Milan</a>, according to&nbsp;El Nacional. Known for his possession-heavy and fluid tactical approach, Xavi emphasizes short passes, high pressing, and teamwork.



If appointed, the Spaniard could unlock Pulisic’s technical abilities, especially his dribbling and vision in tight spaces. However, adapting to Xavi’s intricate style may require Pulisic to improve his decision-making and positional awareness. In such a system, the USMNT star could excel as part of a dynamic front line that emphasizes creating space and controlling the tempo of the game.



<h5>Massimiliano Allegri</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241220_WST_545000_allegri-milan-1200x675_741eadff.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="allegri milan" class="wp-image-545046" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142827/allegri-milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/christian-pulisics-new-milan-manager-former-cristiano-ronaldo-coach-emerges-as-leading-candidate/">Sky Italia have also added in Allegri</a>, a familiar face at San Siro, who led the Rossoneri to a&nbsp;Scudetto in 2010-11. Known for his pragmatic approach, Allegri focuses on defensive solidity and efficient counter-attacking soccer.



Under Allegri, the 26-year-old’s pace and ability to exploit space could make him a crucial asset during quick transitions. However, this system would likely demand greater defensive discipline from Pulisic, potentially limiting his attacking freedom. Despite this, the manager’s experience with managing star players like Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus could foster a balanced environment where Pulisic’s talents are utilized effectively.



<h5>Roberto Mancini</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241220_WST_545000_roberto-mancini-milan-1200x675_01276e96.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="roberto mancini milan" class="wp-image-545047" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142834/roberto-mancini-milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Mancini, who recently left his role as Saudi Arabia’s national team coach, is a strong contender for the job as well, as reported by&nbsp;Calciomercato. Known for his flexible and balanced tactical setups, Mancini combines controlled possession with attacking freedom.



This approach could provide an ideal environment for Pulisic to thrive. Mancini’s adaptability might allow Pulisic to function as either an inverted winger or a traditional wide player, depending on the match scenario. With the freedom to express himself in attack, the winger could continue to shine while contributing to the team’s overall structure.



<h5>Maurizio Sarri</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241220_WST_545000_sarri-milan-1200x675_998360d8.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="sarri milan" class="wp-image-545049" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/20142849/sarri-milan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Sarri, a veteran coach with stints at Chelsea, Napoli, and Juventus, is renowned for his high-pressing, fast-paced style. His Sarri-ball philosophy prioritizes quick transitions, fluid movement, and exploiting space.



Chelsea bought Pulisic in January 2019 to play under Sarri’s tutelage, but the latter didn’t last long enough at Stamford Bridge to actually coach the player. Now, they could finally meet, as the winger could find himself in a familiar system that aligns with his strengths. Pulisic’s speed and dribbling would make him a key figure in the Italian’s attacking schemes. However, the demanding work rate required in Sarri’s style would push Pulisic to enhance his defensive contributions and off-the-ball positioning.



<h2>Pulisic’s role under new coach</h2>



Regardless of who takes over, Pulisic’s ability to adapt to different systems will be pivotal. His versatility as a winger and attacking midfielder makes him an asset in any tactical setup. However, the following factors will determine his success under a new coach:



<ul><li>Tactical discipline: Coaches like Allegri and Sarri demand high levels of tactical awareness and discipline, which may require him to refine his defensive game.</li><li>Offensive freedom: With Mancini or Xavi, he could enjoy more creative freedom, allowing him to focus on driving forward and creating chances.</li><li>Work rate: Sarri’s high-intensity style would challenge him to contribute more in pressing and defensive transitions.</li></ul>

From Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s ex-coaches to possible reunion: 4 names in line for Milan job and their potential impact on Christian Pulisic

From Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s ex-coaches to possible reunion: 4 names in line for Milan job and their potential impact on Christian Pulisic - World Soccer Talk

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Amid a turbulent period for Everton, speculation surrounding the future of their current manager, Sean Dyche, has been rife. Despite guiding the club through immense challenges and twice rescuing the Toffees from relegation, Dyche’s position appears far from secure. The imminent takeover by Dan Friedkin’s group has only intensified these rumors. New reports suggest that Everton may be eyeing <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/my-biggest-mistake-ex-chelsea-boss-on-club-exit-in-2019/">Maurizio Sarri</a>, as a potential replacement for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/dyche-warns-players-as-everton-make-decision-on-coachs-future/">Sean Dyche</a>.



The Toffees’ struggles in recent years have been well-documented. Financial difficulties, player injuries, and managerial instability have contributed to a period of upheaval. Dyche took over as manager during a particularly tumultuous time. In his tenure, he has twice managed to keep the club in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> despite its precarious position.



Under Dyche, Everton has not only survived relegation battles. The Toffees also managed to navigate the uncertainty surrounding ownership changes. Yet, despite his efforts, rumors about his future continue to swirl. Many question whether the Englishman will remain at the helm after the impending takeover by Dan Friedkin’s group.



Reports from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teamtalk.com/everton/maurizio-sarri-to-everton-report-reveals-former-chelsea-managers-first-concrete-toffees-target-amid-dyche-sack-talk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TEAMtalk</a> suggest that while the club’s current leadership has no immediate plans to dismiss Dyche, his long-term future remains uncertain. The English manager is under contract until the end of the ongoing season. However, the new owners are reportedly prepared to make a change.



<h2>Friedkin’s takeover leads to Sarri rumors</h2>



Sarri, who won the Europa League with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> in 2019, reportedly wants to return to coaching. Thus, he is waiting for the right project. Everton could provide him with an opportunity to re-establish himself in the Premier League. Reports suggest that if he were to take over at Goodison Park, he would bring along his trusted fitness coach, Daniele Tognaccini.



Adding further intrigue to the rumors surrounding the Italian’s potential arrival at Everton are reports that he has already identified his first transfer target. <a href="https://www.interlive.it/2024/10/01/sarri-nuovo-allenatore-la-prima-richiesta-e-un-giocatore-dellinter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Live</a> reports that Sarri has expressed a desire to bring Polish midfielder Piotr Zielinski to Everton should he take the managerial role.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241003_WST_533224_Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio-1200x675_94904970.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-533251" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/Maurizio-Sarri-Lazio.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Zielinski, who played under Sarri at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states">Napoli</a>, has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter since joining <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/american-owned-inter-milan-boosts-revenue-to-over-500-million/">Inter</a> this summer. The 30-year-old midfielder has long been linked with a move to the Premier League. Clubs like Liverpool expressed interest in the past. However, a reunion with Sarri at Everton could provide Zielinski with the opportunity to showcase his talents in England’s top flight.



<h2>Dyche’s future still uncertain</h2>



While the rumors surrounding Sarri’s potential arrival continue to gain momentum, Sean Dyche remains <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/sean-dyche-everton-battles-hero-zero-zero-hero-mentality/">in charge of Everton</a>. However, the pressure on the English manager is mounting. The team’s performances on the pitch have been less than inspiring. The 53-year-old needs a rapid turnaround if he wants to save his job as Blues manager.



The Friedkin Group’s takeover is unlikely to ease the speculation surrounding Dyche’s future. With the new owners reportedly keen on bringing in a high-profile manager like Sarri, the next few months could prove pivotal for Dyche’s tenure at Goodison Park. If results do not improve by the turn of the year, Everton’s new ownership may opt for a managerial change, bringing Sarri to Merseyside to spearhead a new era for the club.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Everton hold talks with Sarri, already decide on first signing

There is always speculation about the manager job at Everton, a role Maurizio Sarri may take over from Sean Dyche.

It was a “fundamental mistake” and “an enormous error” for Ex-Chelsea boss, Maurizio Sarri, to leave Chelsea, he has openly acknowledged.



The 65-year-old managed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> to a 2019 Europa League final triumph against Arsenal during his one season at the helm. His team had a similar run that year in the Carabao Cup. However, they lost to Manchester City in a penalty shootout at Wembley. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/sarri-resigns-as-lazio-coach-amid-supposed-split-with-players/">Sarri</a> left Chelsea that summer to rejoin <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/juventus-tv-schedule/">Juventus</a> in Serie A; although he now wishes he had stayed in the Premier League.



“[Leaving was] a fundamental mistake in my career”, he told <a href="https://sport.sky.it/calciomercato/2024/06/07/sarri-napoli-conte-calciomercato-news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Italia</a> when questioned about his tenure at Chelsea. “We had everything required to remain. It’s a difficult club to work at where you probably don’t get to finish the second season, as practically nobody did in the Roman Abramovich era.



“At least I would’ve remained in the general Premier League situation. We had a good journey there, as the previous season the team finished fifth, then we were third behind Liverpool and Manchester City, who were above all the rest.



“We won the Europa League with 13 victories and lost the Carabao Cup final on penalties to Manchester City, after eliminating Liverpool and Tottenham, who that year had reached the Champions League final. I made an enormous error that I should’ve avoided. The desire to return to Italy should’ve been inferior to the desire to stay in the Premier League, but that was not the case.”



<h2>How “Sarri-ball” helped Chelsea</h2>



The Italian manager known for his tactical acumen and distinctive playing style, took the helm at Stamford Bridge in summer 2018. His arrival was met with mixed reactions; given his reputation for implementing a highly specific style of play, often referred to as “Sarri-ball.”



Over his single season with the club, Sarri’s short spell had notable highs, including a major European trophy. However, he also faced significant challenges, marked by internal strife and questions about his philosophy’s adaptability to the Premier League.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240608_WST_510858_imago0040582686h-1200x800_989cae85.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-510897" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago0040582686h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago0040582686h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago0040582686h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago0040582686h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago0040582686h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Sarri won his first trophy as a professional coach with Chelsea in the 2018/19 Europa League</figcaption></figure>



Sarri’s appointment was seen as a move towards a more aesthetically pleasing style of soccer. However, this shift promised both excitement and uncertainty, as he had not tested his methods outside Italy. “Sarri-ball” is characterized by quick, short passes, high pressing, and a focus on maintaining possession. At its best, it creates a dynamic and entertaining brand of soccer.



<h2>Mixed legacy amid criticism</h2>



However, its implementation requires players to adapt to highly specific positional play and intense physical demands. Early in the season, it was clear that the experienced boss faced the challenge of instilling his philosophy in a squad not entirely suited to it.



The adaptation period saw mixed results, with moments of brilliance interspersed with frustrating performances. 



Key to Sarri’s system was the midfield pivot, a role he assigned to <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44430551" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jorginho</a>, his trusted lieutenant from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states">Napoli</a>. This move, however, displaced N’Golo Kante from his preferred defensive midfield position, leading to criticism from fans and pundits alike.



The crowning achievement of his tenure at West London was undoubtedly winning the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/europa-league-tv-schedule/">UEFA Europa League</a>. The Blues navigated through the competition with relative ease. This run showcased the tactical prowess and resilience that Sarri had instilled in the squad.



Sarri’s legacy at Chelsea is complex. On one hand, he delivered a major European trophy and ensured the club’s return to the Champions League. 



On the other hand, his single-minded approach and the internal discord it bred left a somewhat divisive imprint on the club’s history. His tenure underscored the difficulties of implementing a distinct footballing philosophy in a league as competitive and physically demanding as the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a>.



Photo credits: IMAGO / Lackovic : IMAGO / Newspix

"My biggest mistake": Ex-Chelsea boss on club exit in 2019

It was a "fundamental mistake and an enormous error" for Ex-Chelsea boss, Maurizio Sarri, to leave the London club

Maurizio Sarri officially stepped down as head coach of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/lazio-tv-schedule/">Lazio</a> on Wednesday. The veteran manager was quickly replaced by former assistant Giovanni Martusciello. Lazio currently sits ninth in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> table after finishing second only behind champions <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Napoli</a> during the previous campaign. 



<a href="https://football-italia.net/what-sarri-told-lazio-squad-when-resigning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reports</a> out of Italy claim that Sarri made the choice after supposedly telling the players that they were not with him anymore. The same report even went as far as saying that some of the team members were happy with the coach’s departure. Sarri’s contract at the club was previously set to expire in the summer of 2025.



“S.S. Lazio announces that Maurizio Sarri has handed in his resignation as head coach of the first team,” the team said in a <a href="https://www.sslazio.it/en/news/comunicati/comunicato-ufficiale" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a>. “The club would like to thank the coach for his achievements and for the work he has done, wishing him the best of luck in his professional and personal life.



“At the same time, the club communicates that it has decided to entrust Giovanni Martusciello with the technical leadership.”



<h2>Lazio has taken huge step backward after solid previous season</h2>



Sarri made the decision to depart the club after he failed to win any of the team’s previous four matchups. Lazio also recorded five losses during their last seven Serie A fixtures as well. After taking a year off from the sport, the Italian coach initially joined the club in the summer of 2021.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494830_Sarri-sacked-Serie-A-1200x670_fd50f04a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494848" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Sarri-sacked-Serie-A-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Sarri-sacked-Serie-A-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Sarri-sacked-Serie-A-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Sarri-sacked-Serie-A.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



In his first season at the helm, Lazio finished fifth, subsequently qualifying for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/europa-league-tv-schedule/">Europa League</a>. Star striker Ciro Immobile flourished under Sarri and finished the 2021/22 campaign as the Italian top flight’s top scorer. The coach’s influence on the club seemed to get positive from there, as Lazio finished second in the Serie A the following season.



Nevertheless, the Roman club has taken a major step backward during the current campaign. Lazio found themselves as low as 18th in the table after dropping their opening two league matches. Sarri did manage to lift the team back up to sixth as recently as late January. However, the club’s recent form has since diminished over the last six weeks. 



<h2>Sarri latest veteran coach to seemingly lose his touch</h2>



Despite the setback, Sarri will now likely become a significant target for other top teams around Europe later this summer. After all, the Italian has collected silverware with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/juventus-tv-schedule/">Juventus</a> in previous spells at the clubs. Sarri guided the Blues to the Europa League trophy in 2019. Although he left the team soon after the triumph, the coach then won the Serie A with the Old Lady a year later. 



While Sarri is a highly rated veteran coach, and will likely find a job fairly fast, clubs should perhaps be looking forward when looking to hire a manager. Fellow veteran Rafa Benitez was recently sacked by Spanish side <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/celta-vigo-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Celta Vigo</a> on Tuesday. Jose Mourinho departed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/roma-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Roma</a> back in January as well. There have been <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/managers-like-players-lose-touch-and-ability-as-their-careers-age/">suggestions</a> that, much like players, older coaches tend to lose their ability with age.



Along with these concerns, Sarri has also previously found himself in hot water due to homophobic and sexist comments. Serie A officials fined the coach over $20,000 for a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/jan/19/internazionale-napoli-roberto-mancini-maurizio-sarri" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remark</a> during an exchange with then <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-milan-tv-schedule/">Inter Milan</a> manager Roberto Mancini. Sarri eventually <a href="https://africa.espn.com/football/story/_/id/37500069/new-chelsea-boss-maurizio-sarri-presents-anti-antonio-conte" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apologized</a> for the comments after accepting the Chelsea position back in 2018.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Sarri resigns as Lazio coach amid supposed split with players

Maurizio Sarri has officially stepped down as head coach of Lazio. Italian reports claim that the manager felt as if he lost his players.

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