A Look Back At Lazio's 2024: President, Sport Director & Coaches

Lazio's 2024 campaign has been defined by bold decisions, transformative leadership, and promising developments on and off the pitch. From President Claudio Lotito’s visionary strategies to Angelo Fabiani’s squad overhaul. The year also saw challenges, particularly with Maurizio Sarri’s departure and Igor Tudor’s brief stint, both of whom left their mark on the team in different ways. Marco Baroni’s arrival injected new energy into the squad, proving to be a pivotal moment for the club. This article reviews the pivotal figures behind Lazio’s transformative year, assessing their impact on the team’s successes and struggles.

Claudio Lotito

President Claudio Lotito continues to showcase his strong leadership and strategic foresight for Lazio's future. His bold decisions, such as appointing Marco Baroni as coach and investing in emerging talents, have revitalized the Biancoceleste project. Lotito's influence extends beyond the pitch, with community-focused charitable initiatives led by Signora Mezzaroma strengthening the club's bond with its supporters. The gamble on players like Valentín Castellanos, initiated two years ago, is starting to pay off this season. With ambitious goals ahead, Lotito faces the challenge of further strengthening the squad to consistently compete at the top and close the gap with Serie A’s elite. RATING: 7.5  

Angelo Fabiani

Angelo Fabiani’s leadership in 2024 marked a transformative period for Lazio. He boldly restructured the squad, prioritizing young talents and bidding farewell to veteran players. Deals with Juventus, including Nicolò Rovella and Luca Pellegrini, highlight his skill in building valuable partnerships, while signings like Dia and Tavares have been exceptional value additions. Fabiani’s work also extends to youth development, laying the groundwork for a promising future alongside Enrico Lotito. His next challenge will be navigating the winter transfer market with limited resources to strengthen the team and push Lazio towards domestic and European prominence. RATING: 7.5

Maurizio Sarri

Sarri’s time at Lazio ended in the worst possible way, tarnishing what had been an exciting journey that saw the team reach second place in the standings. Despite requesting high-profile signings like Berardi, Ricci, and Milik—deals potentially worth 70 million euros—he ended up with players like Rovella, Guendouzi, Kamada, and Castellanos, who other coaches managed to utilize more effectively. Sarri admitted he transferred his anxiety onto the team, which hindered his ability to maximize the potential of the squad. He left Lazio in ninth place, out of both the Super Cup and the Champions League, with the latter being the only competition where his Lazio made a mark. Two highlights from 2024: the Coppa Italia derby victory (his last win against Mourinho) and a home win against Bayern Munich on February 14, although neither result was enough for qualification. RATING: 5.5

Igor Tudor

Tudor arrived at a turbulent time, with Lazio struggling, a divided atmosphere, and players lacking direction. He managed to turn things around, securing six wins, three draws, and two losses (to Juventus and Roma) across eleven matches, ultimately leading Lazio back into the Europa League—a goal that seemed unattainable upon his arrival. However, throughout his tenure, he felt somewhat detached from the club, the players, and the environment, as though he didn’t quite fit in. Despite this, he gave purpose to the season’s end and almost reached the Coppa Italia final. Tudor’s tenure was marked by rejecting players who would later become key contributors, like Rovella and Guendouzi, whom he deemed unsuitable for his system. Lotito and Fabiani ultimately made the right decision in favoring those players. RATING: 6.5

Marco Baroni

Marco Baroni’s arrival at Lazio marked the start of a new chapter defined by dynamic football and a winning mentality. Overcoming initial doubts, Baroni has shaped a tenacious and proactive team that has reignited fan excitement. His experience, honed at Verona, has brought confidence and resilience to the squad. Baroni's steadfast commitment to his tactical philosophy, despite summer criticism, has delivered tangible results. Lazio now plays with a warrior spirit, winning admiration and laying a strong foundation for a bright future. RATING: 8