Lazio were unable to keep up with Inter on Sunday night and committed seppuku on the two goals, which were helped by big blunders, especially the first one. Maurizio Sarri surprisingly excluded Luis Alberto from the XI, giving Daichi Kamada a shot despite his subpar performances.
The coach provided a standard motivation for his choice.
“He has had some ailments and isn’t in optimal shape. He could give us more from the bench, when the intensity is lower, in his current state.”
Luis Alberto was indeed used as a sub, logging 25 minutes, but he didn’t make an impact. According to Tuttomercatoweb, there could be more to the boss’ decision, as it might have been a disciplinary measure.
The Spaniard reportedly discussed with other veterans of the Lazio locker room following the Atletico Madrid clash. His teammates complained because his disappointment and gesturing were too manifest during the Champions League fixture.
The mercurial midfielder has been the only one to get a contract renewal from the Biancocelesti in recent months despite other players being in more precarious situations. He has recorded four goals and two assists so far. The Inter game marked the first time he didn’t start while available this season. He has missed one match due to yellow-card accumulation earlier on.
Our Take on Luis Alberto
It’s probably much ado about nothing and the usual minor controversy that gets magnified by the fact his side has been woeful and hugely disappointing, and he hasn’t been superb either.
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