Sarri Not Happy Despite Lazio’s Victory Over Atromitos

Lazio ended their preseason with a 2-0 win over Atromitos in Rieti, but the victory was overshadowed by shocking scenes on the pitch. Instead of being remembered for the goals by Tijjani Noslin and Pedro, the match turned into a showcase of anger, fouls, and chaos.

The first half turned ugly very quickly. It started with a reckless blow from Matteo Guendouzi that sparked the first brawl. The referee, Forneau, tried to calm things down by showing yellow cards, but peace only lasted for a moment. Soon after, Atromitos defender Lima Santos launched a brutal tackle on Castellanos. The Argentine striker reacted furiously, and within seconds another fight broke out in the middle of the pitch.

This second incident spread rapidly, involving several players and continuing even into the tunnel leading to the locker rooms. Both benches ran in to help restore order, and police were forced to step in to separate the two sides.

In the end, the referee sent off Castellanos and Lima, reducing both teams to ten men. The atmosphere remained tense for several minutes, leaving fans and officials stunned by the level of aggression in what was supposed to be a friendly match.

After the match, reports confirmed that coach Maurizio Sarri was furious. He gave Castellanos a strong scolding in the dressing room, underlining his frustration with the striker’s lack of discipline. The coach’s anger was not only about the red card in Rieti but also about a repeating pattern of behavior.

Castellanos’ fiery character has been a problem before. Last season, he lost control in several games: against Empoli when he clashed with goalkeeper Devis Vasquez for time-wasting, in the Derby della Capitale when he tangled with Mats Hummels and received a suspension, and against Cagliari when he battled Yerry Mina, which at least led to the Colombian being sent off.

Now, after another reckless display in preseason, critics are questioning his ability to stay calm when things get heated. Many point out that Castellanos has already been criticized for not being effective enough inside the penalty area, and now his temper is putting even more pressure on him before the start of the Serie A season.

Lazio may celebrate two wins in their last two preseason matches, but Castellanos’ red card and the fights against Atromitos have left an unpleasant mark. With Serie A starting soon, Sarri will want his striker to focus on goals rather than arguments, because repeated behavior like this does not help the team, the fans, or Castellanos’ own image.