Lazio have emerged as a surprising force in Serie A this season, showcasing a remarkable return to form after a disappointing previous campaign. Under the guidance of coach Marco Baroni, the club has implemented a strategy focused on maximizing performance while minimizing expenses, making them one of the most efficient teams in the league.
Calciomercato report how one of the key factors contributing to Lazio’s success is their financial prudence. Among the top seven teams in the standings, Baroni is the lowest-paid coach, earning just one million euros per year. In contrast, other coaches like Fiorentina’s Palladino earn significantly more, with Thiago Motta at Juventus making nearly four times Baroni’s salary despite having fewer points this season. This financial strategy aligns with Lazio’s broader goal of reducing their wage bill by four million euros to comply with stringent new regulations. Currently, Lazio’s total player salaries stand at 40.5 million euros net, which is still considerably less than rivals like Napoli and Inter, who spend 82.9 million and 141.7 million respectively.
In terms of player acquisitions, Lazio have been remarkably efficient. The club has spent less than nine million euros in the transfer market while maintaining a competitive edge. Their net expenditure for player transfers was recorded at -8.95 million euros, with total purchases amounting to 34.9 million euros against earnings of 25.95 million from player sales. Notably, the most significant investment was the redemption of Guendouzi for 13 million euros.
Lazio’s performance this season validates club president Lotito’s philosophy that spending does not always equate to success. The team currently sits just one point off the top of the table and leads their Europa League group after four matches. This success is underscored by their impressive record of winning ten out of their last eleven games across all competitions.
The current standings highlight a stark contrast between financial outlay and on-field performance. For instance, AC Milan trails Lazio by seven points despite having a wage bill of 104.3 million euros and a squad valued at more than double that of Lazio’s. Similarly, AS Roma find themselves struggling near the relegation zone with an 89.9 million euro wage bill and a squad valued over 330 million euros.
