Sarri highlighted the absence of thrust in his side, criticizing new striker Daniel Maldini for lacking the attacking instincts of his predecessor. "We don't do much up front," the former Chelsea boss remarked, suggesting Maldini plays too far from the goal. He also defended keeping young Petar Ratkov on the bench due to language and style barriers, admitting the young players are "catapulted into a new reality."
Meanwhile, Castellanos has settled quickly at West Ham, scoring twice and starting every Premier League game since the transfer. Sarri’s earlier partnership with the Argentine brought sharpness and directness, whereas Lazio's current attack remains in search of cohesion.