The stage is set for a thrilling Coppa Italia final as Lazio prepare to face Inter Milan at the Stadio Olimpico, just days after their Serie A clash ended in a commanding Nerazzurri victory. But while much of Maurizio Sarri's starting lineup is taking shape, one key position remains a puzzle—the regista role in midfield.
Between the posts, Edoardo Motta is the undisputed choice after his heroics in the semi-final. In defense, the reliable pairing of Mario Gila and Alessio Romagnoli will start, pushing Oliver Provstgaard to the bench. After a well-deserved rest on Saturday, Nuno Tavares reclaims his spot at left-back, replacing Luca Pellegrini. On the right, Adam Marusic remains Sarri's go-to option, meaning Manuel Lazzari will have to wait for his chance from the sidelines.
In midfield, Toma Basic and Kenneth Taylor are locked in for the box-to-box roles. However, the deep-lying playmaker position is a three-way battle, and none of the candidates are in peak condition. Nicolo Rovella has only recently returned from a long injury layoff and lacks the defensive solidity Sarri craves against Inter's lightning-fast attacks. Danilo Cataldi, meanwhile, has been sidelined with a muscle problem and, despite returning to training, is far from match fit.
The wildcard is Patric, who picked up a slight knock over the weekend but is expected to recover in time. Though primarily a defender, the Spaniard has emerged as the favorite for the role, according to reports from sources like La Lazio Siamo Noi.
Up front, Tijjani Noslin is tipped to lead the line ahead of Boulaye Dia and Daniel Maldini. On the left wing, Mattia Zaccagni makes a timely return, pushing veteran Pedro—who is also not at full fitness—to the bench. Gustav Isaksen is the frontrunner to start on the right.
With the Coppa Italia trophy on the line, Lazio will need to bring a sharper edge than they showed in Saturday's defeat. Sarri's final decision in midfield could be the key to unlocking Inter's defense and lifting the cup.
