Maurizio Sarri is back in charge of Lazio

Maurizio Sarri is an Italian professional football manager and former amateur player, best known for his tactical acumen and distinct playing style often referred to as “Sarriball.”

Quick Facts:

▪︎Full name: Maurizio Sarri

▪︎Born: January 10, 1959 (age 66)

▪︎Birthplace: Naples, Italy

▪︎Background: Former banker who transitioned into full-time football management in his 40s

Managerial Style – “Sarriball”:

▪︎High-possession, short-passing style of play

▪︎Emphasis on fluid build-up from the back

▪︎Often utilizes a 4-3-3 formation

▪︎Inspired by Arrigo Sacchi and Pep Guardiola, but with his own methodical, detail-driven spin

Clubs Managed:

▪︎Empoli 2012–2015 Gained promotion to Serie A with beautiful football

▪︎Napoli 2015–2018 Challenged Juventus with an exciting, record-setting team

▪︎Chelsea 2018–2019 Won the UEFA Europa League; finished 3rd in Premier League

▪︎Juventus 2019–2020 Won Serie A in his only season

▪︎Lazio 2021–2024 Brought tactical discipline, secured European football

Personality & Reputation:

▪︎Known for chain-smoking.Once he said:”I smoke 60 cigarettes a day”.

▪︎Wearing tracksuits, and avoiding media attention

▪︎Respected for his football intellect, though sometimes clashes with club hierarchies

▪︎Often praised by players for improving their tactical awareness and technical discipline

☆☆☆Summary:

Maurizio Sarri is a fascinating figure in modern football—an outsider who rose through Italy’s lower leagues with sheer tactical brilliance. He’s won silverware at Chelsea and Juventus, and his style has left a lasting mark on European football.