Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri has recently undergone a minor heart procedure following a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, a condition that disrupts the normal rhythm of the heart. According to reports from Italian media, the operation was routine, providing a sense of reassurance for both the club’s management and its supporters. Given his age and the nature of the procedure, there is hope that the 66-year-old will be able to resume his regular coaching responsibilities in the coming days.
Sarri’s return to Lazio marks his second tenure with the club, having initially taken the role in June 2025. Under his leadership, Lazio has had a mixed run in Serie A this season, currently positioned eighth in the league standings, with six victories out of their 17 matches played. The team’s next fixture is critical; they are set to host Napoli this Sunday at 11:30 GMT, an encounter that presents an opportunity for Lazio to improve their ranking and bolster their chances of European competition.
His path to becoming a prominent figure in football management is quite remarkable. Sarri started his coaching journey at various lower-tier Italian clubs while also working as a banker to support himself. However, in the early 2000s, he made a pivotal decision to leave his banking career behind and commit entirely to coaching. His breakthrough came in the 2013-14 season when he guided Empoli to promotion to Italy’s top division, showcasing his ability to nurture and develop talent.
His success at Empoli led to his appointment at Napoli, his hometown club, where he quickly made a significant impact. During his tenure, he led the team to exceptional performances, culminating in two second-place finishes in Serie A within three years, which cemented his reputation as a top-tier manager in Italian football.
In 2018, Sarri transitioned to the English Premier League to manage Chelsea. His time with the Blues was marked by notable achievements, most prominently winning the UEFA Europa League and reaching the Carabao Cup final. After one season in England, he returned to Italy, continuing his success by securing the Serie A title with Juventus during the 2019-20 season.
Sarri began his first stint with Lazio in June 2021 and achieved impressive results, including leading the club to a second-place finish in the league during the 2022-23 season. However, he resigned from his position in March 2024. His connection to Lazio, however, remained strong, and he returned to the managerial role in 2025, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the club and its aspirations.
With a wealth of experience across different leagues and a distinct managerial style that focuses on tactical flexibility and player development, Sarri continues to leave an indelible mark on Italian football. His ongoing journey reflects not just his resilience but also his commitment to achieving excellence, both for himself and the teams he manages.

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