Lazio's tumultuous week continues following their recent 1-1 draw against Atalanta, where the team faced not only adversaries on the pitch but also issues of player conduct and injury woes. Reports indicate discontent within the club stemming from defender Samuel Gigot's reaction to head coach Marco Baroni's instructions, leading to broader concerns about professionalism and readiness within the squad.
According to Il Messaggero, Gigot, who joined Lazio from Olympique Marseille under less-than-ideal circumstances last summer, exhibited behavior considered unprofessional when he rebelled against Baroni's orders during the second half. This prompted Angelo Fabiani, the club's sporting director, to make the trip down from the stands to confront Gigot personally. This dramatic interaction raises questions about the 31-year-old’s commitment to the club, especially as the sporting department evaluates potential actions against him. If his form doesn’t improve, the club may turn to the transfer market for reinforcements, with Empoli’s Ardian Ismajli surfacing as a possible replacement.
Gigot has had limited game time this season, participating mainly as a substitute with just one goal scored across his appearances. Most of his contributions have come from starts during matches such as the Europa League and Coppa Italia, indicating the coaching staff’s reliance on him for pivotal fixtures. Yet, the current situation could see him thrust back to the forefront of the defense due to mounting injury issues among his teammates.
The upcoming match against Como has placed Baroni under additional pressure, as he will have to devise strategies without several key players. Star attacker Mattia Zaccagni, Gila, and Castellanos are all sidelined due to suspensions, compounding the team’s challenges. Defensively, Patric is expected to miss at least one month due to ankle issues, having flown to Barcelona for medical consultations. This leaves Baroni with limited options as he attempts to assemble his starting eleven.
Backup plans may see Gigot partner with Alessio Romagnoli, attempting to stabilize what could be considered the second-string defense. The situation creates a significant burden on Coach Baroni, who must not only field competitive players but also maintain morale within the group as it grapples with adversity.
Adding to the team's anxiety are concerns over injuries to Pedro and his fellow forward Noslin. Baroni’s hopes lie on the recovery of these two players, who could offer necessary alternatives from the bench, particularly with Castellanos facing possible extended punishment. Should Noslin and Pedro return, it would provide Baroni with strategic depth as he weighs formation options he hasn’t had available over the last few weeks.
Pedro is deemed to be close to making his comeback, but the duration and nature of his conditioning remain key factors. Baroni confirmed the need for caution, recalling the unfortunate stint with Dia, who has wrestled with his health and conditioning for over six weeks. Any decisions made must prioritize player health to prevent recurring injury issues.
While the club aims to maintain competitiveness for the upcoming challenge against Como, it’s clear the shakeup inside Lazio’s camp could lead to dramatic shifts not just for the lineup but also the overall season outlook. With tensions running high, it remains to be seen how the players respond to these mounting challenges.
With recent controversies surrounding player behavior and serious injury setbacks, tensions within Lazio rise as they look for solutions. Can the current crop of players rally together, or is it time for significant changes before the January transfer window? While the focus remains on the next match, the outcome could very well set the course for the remainder of the season.