Lazio coach Sarri takes stand over referee criticism: ‘Speak to the club, last time the club issued a statement’

PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Maurizio Sarri refused to be drawn into fresh refereeing controversy after Lazio were held to a 0-0 draw by Cremonese at the Stadio Olimpico, instead urging questions to be directed at the club.

The Biancocelesti extended their unbeaten home run to seven matches, but the result was a frustrating one, with Lazio struggling to turn territorial control into clear chances. Sarri acknowledged that recent changes have disrupted attacking fluency.

“Some changes can make you lose automatisms,” he explained, with quotes via TMW, pointing to the positive of a clean sheet against a Cremonese side that had previously scored freely against Milan and Bologna.

“The negative was a very poor first half technically, with basic mistakes. We raised the tempo in the second half, but did far too little to win.”

Squad availability remains a major concern, particularly in midfield. “At Udine we’ll have to play someone, right now we maybe have two midfielders available,” Sarri admitted.

“This situation has been going on for months. When you play 10-12 matches with at least five absentees, sooner or later you pay for it.”

Lazio coach Sarri chooses silence over referee criticism

Asked directly about refereeing decisions, Sarri drew a firm line. “Please speak to the club,” he said. “The last time I spoke about referees, the club issued a statement saying the opposite.” When pressed again, he added pointedly: “If I take a position, I get suspended. Why don’t you take one instead?”

Sarri also defended striker Valentín Castellanos, attributing his struggles to tactical adaptation and a recent two-month injury lay-off. “Either our style doesn’t suit him, or he’s in a difficult moment,” Sarri said, expressing confidence that goals will return.

Despite frustration, Sarri struck a measured tone about the bigger picture, insisting Lazio are growing mentally and tactically. He reiterated his desire to stay long-term, but concluded: “That doesn’t depend only on me. I’d love to continue here, but all situations must be evaluated.”