Maurizio Sarri has rejoined Lazio as head coach – 15 months after leaving the role.

The 66-year-old replaces Marco Baroni, who led the Serie A side to a seventh-placed finish last season to miss out on European qualification.

Sarri resigned in March 2024 following a fifth defeat in six games and was also heavily critical of the club’s transfer policy.

The former Chelsea boss spent three years previously in charge of Lazio and president Claudio Lotito said in a statement: “Maurizio Sarri has returned home.

“His return is a choice of heart, conviction and vision. With him we want to resume a path that was interrupted too soon, aware that together, we can bring back enthusiasm, identity and ambition.

“Welcome back to your home, commander.”