Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri is recovering after undergoing heart surgery to correct a rhythm disorder, with the club confirming the procedure was successful and that he is expected back on the training ground within days.
The 66-year-old Italian, formerly in charge of Chelsea, had been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, a common condition that can cause an irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, dizziness and shortness of breath. The operation had reportedly been planned for some time.
Maurizio Sarri underwent transcatheter ablation, a minimally invasive procedure designed to eliminate faulty electrical signals in the heart. In an official statement, Lazio confirmed the intervention went smoothly.
“SS Lazio announces that coach Maurizio Sarri, following a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, underwent transcatheter ablation surgery using PFA technology at the Tor Vergata Polyclinic,” the statement read.
“The surgery, performed by Professor Andrea Natale, an international pioneer with over thirty years of experience in treating this condition, was successful.
“The SS Lazio team doctor, Dr Dralo Leo, was present at the event.
“The coach will resume regular management of the team in the next few days.
“SS Lazio and the Coach thank the Policlinico Tor Vergata and Professor Natale’s team for their high level of professionalism and the quality of care they provide to all patients every day.”
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Sarri was expected to remain in hospital for around 24 hours after the procedure. He is due to miss three days of training, with sessions overseen by his assistant Marco Ianni, but could return to work as early as Friday.
There is also a strong possibility that Sarri will be back in the dugout on Sunday when Lazio face Napoli, one of his former clubs.
Lazio currently sit eighth in Serie A, having won six, drawn six and lost five of their league matches this season. Sarri is in his second spell with the Rome-based side after rejoining in the summer, 15 months on from stepping down from the role.
The veteran coach boasts an impressive CV, having guided Chelsea to the Europa League title in 2019 before leading Juventus to the Serie A crown the following year.
