Lazio head coach Marco Baroni shared his thoughts ahead of the match against Monza at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. The Biancocelesti are coming off a 2-1 victory against Cagliari, thanks to the duo of Zaccagni and Castellanos. They will face Salvatore Bocchetti’s Monza, who are in search of points to avoid relegation and narrow the gap with Cagliari.
Baroni began the press conference by discussing the upcoming match against Monza: “It will be a high-risk game because Monza is in difficulty but they are a focused team and perhaps they are playing their last chances to stay in Serie A. We must perform with determination and a desire to win.”
The former Verona coach then commented on the transfer market and the choices for the UEFA and Serie A lists: “The market was one of perspective. Three young players arrived who collectively have 70 appearances. We have the utmost intention to quickly improve these quality players. We have already started to integrate them, and it’s my job to create the conditions for their improvement.”
Regarding the UEFA list exclusions, Baroni explained: “Two factors influenced the UEFA list exclusions: firstly, what I’ve just mentioned, and secondly, I wanted to reward the players who earned the qualification.”
Baroni elaborated on the exclusion of Luca Pellegrini from both the UEFA and Serie A lists: “It’s my choice. It stems from certain considerations. I base everything on the fact that the group and the team come before the players and the coach. The ability to give 100% in every training session, not 70% or 80%. I believe Luca can have an opportunity from this choice. It’s not a closed door but an open one, and I thank him for how he has worked in these two days. I want to see the desire and dedication at the maximum every day to win back the squad. This is my choice that may seem illogical to you, but it is logical.”
The coach also provided an update on injuries: “Both Vecino and Patric are close to returning. These players are almost like new signings for me because they’ve been absent for so long. Tavares and Lazzari are available for the Monza match.”
Baroni concluded by addressing the Champions League race and Tavares’ condition: “I have enormous trust in my squad. I spoke earlier about work, and it’s all in the work. The dedication they have shown in this journey is of great value to me.”
