Lazio Face Key Decision Over Veteran Full-Back Marušić’s Expiring Deal In 2026

Lazio’s management are facing another delicate renewal case as they continue to juggle multiple defensive contracts. While much of the recent attention has been focused on Alessio Romagnoli and Mario Gila, whose deals run until 2027, the club must now turn its priority to Adam Marusic, whose situation is becoming increasingly pressing.

The Montenegrin full-back, who just celebrated his 33rd birthday, is entering what could be the final major contract of his career. According to reports from Il Messaggero, Marusic’s current deal with Lazio expires in June 2026, meaning that by next summer he will be free to negotiate a move on a free transfer if no agreement is reached.

During the summer transfer window, Marusic was linked with a possible move to Fiorentina and reportedly showed some openness to the idea. His main motivation has been to secure a final salary increase, something that Lazio’s board has so far been hesitant to approve.

This has created a classic internal debate between sporting management and coaching priorities. Despite the contractual uncertainty, Maurizio Sarri continues to view Marusic as a vital part of his defensive setup. The experienced full-back has recently returned from a minor strain and remains the only player Sarri insists on fielding whenever fit. His tactical intelligence, reliability, and adaptability make him indispensable to the coach, especially during high-stakes matches like the recent away trip to Bergamo against Atalanta.

Still, the club must also look toward the future. With the possibility of Marusic’s departure in June, Lazio have begun scouting long-term options. One of the names most frequently mentioned is Anton Gaaei, the 22-year-old right-back from Ajax. The young Danish defender is seen as a promising alternative who could step into Marusic’s role if negotiations with the veteran do not lead to a renewal.

For now, Lazio must balance loyalty and practicality. Marusic continues to be a key figure in Sarri’s system, but the club’s directors face a difficult choice: offer a final contract to a trusted veteran or begin shaping the next generation of Biancoceleste full-backs.