Lazio return from the international break with an opportunity to turn a promising opening into club history. Gennaro Gattuso’s side have collected 13 points so far, and victory over Monza would give them five wins from their first six league matches for the first time.
The figures have given Lazio a strong position at the start of the Serie A campaign, but Gattuso has warned against treating Monza’s visit as a straightforward assignment. His message before the weekend was one of concentration and restraint after a long pause in the domestic calendar.
Gattuso calls for focus against Monza
The Lazio coach expects a demanding contest from a Monza team he described as youthful, brave and energetic. He believes the visitors will press with intensity and said his players must match that commitment rather than be influenced by the apparent difference on paper.
“We have to be alert and ready, without allowing ourselves to be caught out,” Gattuso said. “Monza are young, courageous and full of energy. They will come here with real intensity, so we must be prepared and approach the game humbly. It may look like an easy match, but it certainly is not. Lazio will need to produce a very good performance to take the points.”
The break has also allowed the staff to manage the group differently. Players with fewer recent minutes were given more work, while those away on international duty returned with playing time and renewed confidence.
Gattuso said the squad had trained well, rested where necessary and returned in good condition. “I saw the intensity we are looking for,” he said, adding that he was satisfied with the way the international players had rejoined the group.
Selection questions remain open
Gattuso reiterated that selection remains his responsibility as he tries to rotate a squad he considers essential across the season. Asked about Pinamonti, the coach said the player should remain calm and continue the progress shown in training.
“I try to rotate as much as possible because we need everyone,” Gattuso said. “But in the end, I have to make the decisions. I am pleased with how he is training and with the improvements he is making. He must continue in that direction, as must the rest of the group.”
Provstgaard is fit and has continued to train at full pace, although Gattuso said his availability would be assessed closer to the match. The coach praised the defender’s physical qualities and willingness to work, noting that he has already accumulated nearly 2,000 minutes on the pitch.
Pellegrini remains part of the squad
Gattuso also addressed Luca Pellegrini’s position, making clear that the left-back has not been excluded from the Lazio squad. With three specialist left-backs available, the coach accepted that one player must miss out, but insisted Pellegrini has remained available and has taken part in friendlies.
The wider decision rests with the club, although Gattuso said the board already knows his view. “As long as I am here, players must be treated as professionals and with the greatest respect,” he said. “For me, Pellegrini is fully a Lazio player. Then the decisions belong to the club.”
For Lazio, the immediate issue is the league table rather than the uncertainty surrounding individual roles. The 13-point start has created momentum, and Monza now provide the next test of whether Gattuso’s team can make this early run a more lasting part of their season.
