Lazio manager Marco Baroni addressed the media ahead of his team’s Europa League clash against Ludogorets. With Lazio sitting atop the Europa League table with a perfect 12 points from four matches, Baroni emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating their opponents.
“I don’t contemplate the possibility that my team could underestimate a match,” Baroni stated firmly. “I really don’t understand why something like that should happen. We must deliver a great performance tomorrow as well.”
The manager also discussed individual players, including Dele-Bashiru, whom he described as a midfielder capable of playing across the entire field. “He’s a player who is growing. I see him in training while you only see him on the pitch. Today we have 2-3 players we need to evaluate, but if he’s well, he could be part of the match.”
Regarding Noslin, Baroni took some responsibility for the player’s integration: “First of all, I take some responsibility for his situation. I haven’t created the best conditions for him because I’ve played him a bit on the right, a bit on the left. That’s why I take my responsibilities. He’s a player we’ll discover soon, and we’ll see him in action in the upcoming matches.”
Baroni also addressed injury concerns, mentioning that Zaccagni has suffered a contusion and needs to be evaluated, along with Romagnoli and Dele-Bashiru.
The Lazio manager emphasized the importance of European competition for the team’s growth: “We have a strong mentality. In Italy, there’s this aspect that distinguishes us even in Europe. I find it extraordinary to be able to play in Europe. These competitions help us grow and also help for other competitions like Serie A and Coppa Italia.”
In a separate interview with Sky Sport, Baroni reiterated the significance of the upcoming match: “The team is mature, tomorrow will be a crucial match. They’re a high-level opponent who knows how to put you in difficulty. We all need to be focused on the objective: these are the matches where you can stumble, but only if you underestimate them.”