Maurizio Sarri returns to Empoli
Maurizio Sarri begins his managerial adventure with Lazio against his former employers and newly promoted Empoli, the Blues were relegated in 2019/20 with a Radja Nainggolan strike breaking their hearts and scraping Inter Milan into the Champions League as a result. Patrick Cutrone has arrived at Empoli looking to lead their attack and consolidate top-flight status, a certain possibility but not a push that gets off to the simplest start, this is a very tough baptism back into Serie A for the hosts, but you can feel sure they will rise to the challenge. Lazio are odds on favourites providing a bit of value, at a classic first game of the season price.
Background
It has been a quiet window for the Eagles, Elseid Hysaj from Napoli the only addition, an astute one at that and keeping hold of the services of the likes of Francesco Acerbi, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Luis Alberto and Ciro Immobile. Lazio finished the season strongly last term, having struggled to balance Champions League exertions with their domestic ambitions. They kicked on to finish sixth and having made the knockout stages of the CL it was a respectable season, Sarri may be targeting the Europa League to showcase their talents this term.
This is a free hit opening match for Empoli, the pressure is well and truly off with Sarri’s men expected to travel to a newly promoted side and cut through them with ease. I do not see that being the case, Empoli have not been out of Serie A for very long and have achieved seventh and eighth placed finishes this century.
Ones to watch
The creative artist Luis Alberto is always a great watch and the former Liverpool man is arguably the best chance maker in the division. Ciro Immobile would not have had anywhere near the success he has at the club if it was not for Alberto.
Francesco Acerbi stepped in excellently for Giorgio Chiellini at Euro 2020, one of Gli Azzurri’s key squad players at the tournament. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is the other man to mention in terms of jaw dropping quality in the side, the powerful Serbian can turn a match on his head with his individual class and will be a menacing prospect for the newly promoted fodder.
Lazio are the pick here, given the quality in their ranks and the influence of a world class manager they should get over the line.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
3-1, Lazio get off to the perfect start.