Maurizio Sarri said Lazio are preparing for a ‘very important’ game against Galatasaray, as the Biancocelesti are playing for ‘two weeks off’.
The Aquile sit second in the group, three points behind leaders Galatasaray and a win could help Sarri’s men surpass the Super Lig side.
The top team go straight to the last 16 of the Europa League and Sarri would love to get a two-week break when the others fight in the round of 32.
“Tomorrow will be very important, there’s a round of 16 to play for in a European cup,” Sarri said at a press conference. “It was already essential to qualify but going straight to the last 16 would allow us to have two weeks off to train, which hasn’t happened since August.
“I hope Lazio have changed from the first leg, I hope to see our better version, there will be a need: they are leading the most complicated group of the Europa League. They haven’t conceded away goals in Europe this year.”
Sarri confirmed Ciro Immobile is injured, but stressed it’s ‘not a serious’ setback and said the Italy player could become available for the match against the Turkish giants.
“The injury is minor,” Sarri added. “It’s not serious. If he is able to play, he will be on the pitch already tomorrow. Otherwise, we will find a different solution.”
Sarri was asked if he believes Lazio can go far in the Europa League this term and the former Napoli and Juventus coach pointed at the need for ‘luck’ in the knockout stages.
“It will depend on many factors,” he said. “In the knockout phase, luck is a component, especially in the draw.
“It’s certainly a higher level than the previous editions, given the new format. In addition, top-level teams have dropped out of the Champions League.”