After the convincing victory over Sassuolo, Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso expressed a strong determination not to be distracted by the rankings. In an interview with DAZN, Gattuso underlined that the team must focus on mentality and attitude on the pitch, rather than points in the standings. "When we are not aggressive we have to learn to form a defensive block. The fact that they were left with ten men like with Monza helped us a lot," he declared, recalling the important role of the penalty in the match.
The coach also highlighted the importance of the vehemence and pressure that Lazio exerts on their opponents. “When we play with this vehemence we put the opponent in difficulty,” he explained, referring to the recent performance against Sassuolo. Gattuso reiterated that the ranking is not a factor that can influence the team: "We shouldn't look at the ranking, otherwise we'll get a headache." The coach then invited the players to focus on daily work and training, stating that the road to success passes through discipline and a winning mentality.
During the interview, Gattuso also responded to a compliment addressed to his former coach, Maurizio Inzaghi. "I thank him. His Lazio was really strong, I remember it well. It's an honor for me because if he says it, it's true," he said, showing respect for the figure of Inzaghi and for the team's past.
The coach then spoke of the difficulties faced in the Italian Cup, where Lazio were eliminated by Mantua, and reiterated that the team is "pedalling well" at this stage of the season. "When you take blows in life it's like this. Three months ago we went out in the Italian Cup with a Mantova team that didn't steal anything. When you win everything is easier," he added, highlighting the need to maintain concentration and motivation to recover the points missing from safety.
In summary, Gattuso outlined a strategy based on mentality, attention to defensive play and the pressure exerted on opponents, inviting the team not to be distracted by the rankings but to concentrate on daily work. With the season still ongoing, Lazio will need to continue to sustain their form to gain the necessary points and consolidate their position in the league table.