Lazio’s Season of Change: Isaksen’s Journey and Club Overhaul

Gustav Isaksen joined Lazio just over a year ago, yet his time at the club has already been marked by a series of ups and downs. Hailing from Hjerk, Isaksen emerged from the youth system at Midtjylland, a noted talent incubator in Denmark. The young winger became part of Maurizio Sarri’s squad last season, patiently awaiting an opportunity to make his mark. An injury to Mattia Zaccagni opened the door for Isaksen to enter the starting eleven, showcasing his dynamic abilities on the flanks. However, Sarri’s departure had a negative impact on Isaksen’s playing time, as new coach Igor Tudor did not fit him into the 3-4-2-1 formation. This change threatened Isaksen’s future at Lazio.

Even after Tudor’s exit, Isaksen faced further challenges as Marco Baroni hesitated to reinstate him. These uncertainties almost led to a summer transfer to another club, tempted especially by interest from Scotland. Still, the 23-year-old chose to stay in Rome, determined to reclaim his position. With impressive performances from the bench against Udinese and Milan, Isaksen eventually won over Baroni, who plans to start him against Hellas Verona at the Stadio Olimpico. Isaksen’s first start of the season will be significant, potentially securing him a regular place in both Serie A and Europa League fixtures.

Meanwhile, Lazio President Claudio Lotito has explained the need for considerable changes after a disappointing previous season, where the team finished seventh in Serie A. With Maurizio Sarri resigning in March and Igor Tudor’s brief and challenging tenure, Lazio shifted gears by appointing Marco Baroni and refreshing the squad. Important players such as Luis Alberto, Felipe Anderson, and Danilo Cataldi, along with Daichi Kamada and Nicolo Casale, parted ways with the club. In their place, new signings like Tijjani Noslin, Boulaye Dia, Nuno Tavares, Loum Tchaouna, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Gaetano Castrovilli, and Samuel Gigot arrived.

Lotito emphasized the importance of the overhaul, citing costly lapses of concentration in matches against smaller teams as a critical area for improvement. The goal is to cultivate a united and motivated squad that sees playing for Lazio as a pinnacle, not just a stepping stone. By introducing younger talent, the club hopes to reinvigorate its efforts and succeed in Serie A and beyond.