Alberto Aquilani declared that he had "assumed full responsibility" for Sassuolo's heavy defeat against Lazio, which occurred at home. In his interview with Sky, the coach expressed regret for the performance, calling it a "bad impression" and underlined that the team must apologize to the fans. Aquilani reiterated that, when Sassuolo needs to save their place in Serie A, it is essential to add a little proactivity and not let the perception of danger fade. According to him, the match ended in the 30th minute and Lazio demonstrated that they were superior in all aspects, but the objective remains to restart and not allow the team to lose in such a clear way.
In his comment he also highlighted the importance of a "deep analysis" of performance, starting with himself. He acknowledged that the first goal conceded was "too easy" for Lazio and explained that his responsibility comes from having asked certain things from the players but not having conveyed them in the correct way. Aquilani asked not to lose the determination to always want to cling to the result, even if the team can afford to lose against opponents such as Como and Lazio, as long as it maintains a fighting attitude.
The coach also discussed the context in which Sassuolo operates, underlining that the lack of external pressure can become a double-edged sword. “We have to invent the pressure because we face Serie A,” he said, adding that the team must avoid using the lack of pressure as an excuse. He also acknowledged that the team made defensive errors, conceding goals at critical moments. “Undoubtedly, we gave away goals,” he admitted, explaining that this indicated a lack of adequate training at that stage.
As regards possible tactical changes, Aquilani declared that he does not want to proceed with drastic changes, but to review the non-possession phase. He stressed that although teams closing in on the penalty area can still score, changes need to be made, but without rushing. The objective remains to improve defense and possession management to avoid conceding easy goals in the future.
Finally, the coach closed the interview with an appeal to the team and the fans: "Sassuolo and their supporters make us work well, this must be a positive point, not a disadvantage". With the match concluded, the club is preparing to review its strategy to avoid similar performances being repeated in future matches.