Sarri hails ‘phenomenal’ Pedro, but Lazio ‘not structured to win’

Maurizio Sarri said Lazio were ‘not structured to win this season,’ but paid tribute to ‘phenomenal’ Pedro ahead of his final game for the club.

The match with Pisa kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

There is a sense of farewell in the stadium, because it is the final match of his Lazio career for Pedro after five years, and the team is wearing special patches on their jersey to mark the occasion.

“Pedro has had a phenomenal career, won everything it was possible to win, and been an example for everyone both on and off the field. He is phenomenal in every way,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.

It is also likely to be the last game here for Sarri, with reports he is on the verge of an agreement to take over Atalanta next term.

Although he was not asked specifically about his future, the coach did note why he was ready to walk away.

“We got the silver medal in the Coppa Italia, we were unable to win the Final, but I don’t think this team was structured to win this season,” said Sarri.

“This game reflects our whole season, we are missing eight or nine players. It has been a continual situation of difficulty, we have to make do with what we’ve got.

Pedro also spoke to the media before kick-off and it seems as if he is not entirely ready to hang up his boots yet, despite the end of his Lazio adventure.

“It’s natural to be emotional at this moment, especially with my teammates and the fans, the staff, Sarri who I’ve known for many years. I look back over so many special moments, it was tough, but I want to go out on a high today and enjoy this game,” Pedro told Sky Sport Italia.

“It is hard to choose a single moment, I think I gave my all for this jersey. I would’ve liked to win something here, it wasn’t possible. This has been a very, very difficult season for us, especially without the fans.

“I would like to have a good memory of my last game here.”

Despite knowing it would be the last chance to say goodbye to Pedro, the Lazio ultras did not suspend their boycott of the home games, so the stadium will again be disconcertingly empty.