Baroni: "This Isn’t About Making Excuses. I Emphasized How Crucial This Match Was, And To Finish This Way Tarnishes Our Overall Work. And I Take Full Responsibility.”

Lazio wrapped up their Serie A campaign on Sunday with a 1-0 home defeat by Lecce, ending the season in seventh place on 65 points and outside the European qualification places. The loss also meant the Biancoceleste managed just one victory in the second half of the season—against Monza—highlighting an uneven run after the winter break.

In his post-match press conference at the Stadio Olimpico, coach Marco Baroni offered an honest appraisal of the campaign:

“This isn’t about making excuses,” Baroni said. “I’m disappointed for myself, the players, our fans, and the club. I emphasized how crucial this match was, and to finish this way tarnishes our overall work.”

He noted the team amassed 34 points before the January break and 31 points afterward. “Despite several warning signs, I couldn’t rally the squad following our disappointing display at San Siro—that’s my greatest regret.”

“If the club decides changes are needed, they will know. My staff, the players, and I gave everything. Lazio have averaged 66.6 points over the past decade; we were so close, yet one match undid our efforts.”

Baroni pointed out that Lazio conceded 110 fewer shots on target compared to last term, evidence of a more robust defensive structure. “But tonight’s result shows we still have work to do, and I take full responsibility.”

“I warned the players all week about the danger of complacency; it pains me deeply that we fell into that trap in the final game.”

The coach confirmed discussions with the club’s hierarchy will take place in the coming days. “We’ve been on this journey together, and we’ll evaluate the season and plan our next steps as a united group.”

“Perhaps I failed to impress upon them the match’s importance. The last game leaves the lasting image of our season, and this one doesn’t reflect the progress we’ve made.”

Reflecting on the campaign’s demands, he added, “Managing 20 high-stakes matches isn’t the same as a 52-game season. We paid a price for that, especially considering our strong showing against a title-chasing Inter.”

Despite the disappointment of the closing day, Lazio end the season with a reinforced defensive record and valuable lessons to fuel their push for a return to Europe in 2025–26.