Lazio Outcast Could Be Reinstated Ahead of Monza Game

Lazio head coach Gennaro Gattuso is pushing to bring Luca Pellegrini back into the fold after being left out of the Serie A squad list.

The Background

The 27-year-old has been surplus to requirements since Alfonso Pedraza’s arrival and Nuno Tavares’ revitalisation. Therefore, the club was hoping to sell him in the summer. He and Patric were both left out of the original squad presented on September 2, as the club preferred to leave two open slots for potential free transfers.

The first slot has since been occupied by Diogo Leite, who arrived last month, but no other free agent is expected to join. Therefore, Lazio have an open spot on the list, with only one obvious name to fill it, as Patric was recently sold to Al-Ittifaq.

Gennaro Gattuso Pushing for Luca Pellegrini’s Return

According to Il Messaggero, Gattuso has been advocating for Pellegrini’s reinstatement, as have his good friends, Davide Frattesi and Andrea Pinamonti. The Lazio manager won’t necessarily hand the former Juventus man a prominent role, as he already has two other left-backs in the squad, but he believes it could be a morale booster at camp.

Why Lazio Could Bring Pellegrini Back to the Fold

The Roman newspaper also notes that Pellegrini’s return to the squad could help him find a new club in January. The source adds that the Roman has already vowed to accept offers this winter, after snubbing Turkiye and other destinations in the summer.

Pellegrini Back for Monza Contest?

Il Corriere dello Sport also reveals the possibility of an imminent reinstatement, suggesting that Pellegrini could be back in the squad as early as this weekend. In this case, he would be called up for Sunday’s Serie A fixture against Monza.

Pellegrini Destined to Leave Lazio

Pellegrini is a childhood Lazio supporter who realised his dream by joining the club in January 2023. His contract with the Aquile is set to expire in June 2027, and barring a dramatic turnaround, he won’t be earning a new deal.