Zaccagni: ‘Sarri told Lazio to embrace challenge of transfer embargo’ | OneFootball

Mattia Zaccagni reveals Maurizio Sarri told Lazio players to use the transfer embargo as ‘a challenge’ and he expects a tough opening game against Como.

The Aquile open their Serie A season on Sunday with a visit to Como, kicking off at 17.30 UK time.

The last few months have been dismal for the Biancocelesti, who missed out on European qualification on the final day of last season, then when coach Sarri returned, found out they would not be able to sign any new players due to failed financial stress tests.

Zaccagni and Lazio try to think positive

ROME, ITALY – MAY 25: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between Lazio and Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on May 25, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“Last season didn’t give us what we wanted, but this is football, we need to get back on our feet straight away,” Zaccagni told Lazio Style Channel.

“Many of us had already worked with Sarri and I think those who hadn’t picked up his ideas pretty quickly. We had this problem of the transfer embargo, but the coach told us to see it all as a challenge. I think the squad understood that from the first day.

“We tried to see the glass half full, so we are all working hard and hopefully some new signings will be able to arrive. Meanwhile, we are all focused on the same objective.”

On the other hand, Lazio’s opponents Como this weekend are packed with new arrivals, many of whom are strangers to Serie A and therefore making their debuts in this tournament.

“Como are a bit of a work in progress, a club that spent a lot of money over the last two transfer sessions. They want to have their say, are well organised, but we have all we need to pick up points this weekend,” noted Zaccagni.

When it comes to future opponents, the Italy international has his heart set on the match against Milan.

“I adore Luka Modric, so it would be a great honour for me to play against him,” confessed Zaccagni.