Lazio’s head coach, Maurizio Sarri, is set to make significant adjustments to his starting lineup as the team prepares for a crucial Coppa Italia clash against AC Milan on Thursday. This encounter comes on the heels of their recent match at San Siro, where AC Milan secured a narrow 1-0 victory, prompting Lazio to seek immediate redemption when they host their rivals at the Stadio Olimpico in the Round of 16.
In line with the strategic rotations often seen at this stage, Sarri intends to rest some of his prominent players while granting opportunities to others who have had limited playing time this season. Reports suggest that he might implement up to six changes to his starting XI, beginning with Argentine forward Taty Castellanos, who recently returned from injury.
There is speculation regarding whether Castellanos will start or if Boulaye Dia will be favored, as Dia is set to depart for the African Cup of Nations soon. Sarri is cautious about overburdening Castellanos, who has just resumed play after a two-month recovery period. On the wings, Tijjani Noslin is expected to come in for either Mattia Zaccagni or Gustav Isaksen, with Isaksen being the more likely candidate for rotation. While Pedro is an option, Sarri may hesitate to start the veteran player from the outset.
In the midfield, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is making a case for inclusion ahead of Toma Basic, while Matias Vecino and Matteo Guendouzi appear poised to retain their spots. Reda Belahyane, who has been less frequently utilized, remains a backup option.
Defensively, Nuno Tavares is expected to reclaim his position as a full-back following his injury recovery, which would see Luca Pellegrini return to the bench. Adam Marusic is also anticipated to start, likely at Manuel Lazzari’s expense, while Elseid Hysaj remains eligible to play exclusively in the Coppa Italia due to his exclusion from the Serie A roster.
As for the center-back positions, Sarri is likely to make just one substitution, choosing between Patric in place of Mario Gila or Oliver Provstgaard filling in for Alessio Romagnoli, keeping one of his key defenders in the mix. Finally, Christos Mandas might get the opportunity to make his long-awaited debut of the season in goal, providing Ivan Provedel a well-deserved break.
Lazio’s probable starting lineup for the match is anticipated to be organized in a 4-3-3 formation featuring Mandas in goal, supported by Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, and Tavares in defense; Guendouzi, Vecino, and Dele-Bashiru in midfield; and Noslin, Castellanos, and Zaccagni leading the attack. This match not only presents an opportunity for Lazio to turn the tide against a strong opponent but also to showcase the depth and versatility of their squad.