Ex-Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri floored by Udinese player in Coppa Italia clash

He might have lost his glasses, but at least he won the match

Maurizio Sarri was sent flying by Udinese player Ignacio Pussetto during Lazio’s home win on Tuesday night, which saw him lose his glasses in the process.

The 63-year-old – who was appointed Lazio boss in June 2021 – was watching the game and shouting instructions from his technical area when Biancocelesti midfielder Manuel Lazzari accidentally shoulder-barged Pussetto into the former Chelsea manager.

The Italian’s glasses flew off his head as he fell to the floor, but Sarri was quick to get back to his feet as Pussetto apologised and embraced him.

Sarri then held his glasses in the air to show supporters inside the Stadio Olimpico that he was alright – a gesture that was received well inside the stadium.

Lazio secured a 1-0 victory against Gabriele Cioffi’s side, with Ciro Immobile scoring in extra-time to set-up a Coppa Italia quarter-final tie against AC Milan on February 9.

Maurizio Sarri lost his glasses but won the match 😂 pic.twitter.com/l3nncemG2t

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) January 18, 2022

After the full-time whistle, Sarri confirmed that he was ok after the nasty collision – and made light of the fact that he was the first one to get to their feet.

“It was a good test of my current condition,” he laughed. “I’d like to point out that I was the one who got back up first!”

Sarri also praised his team for their ‘spirit and quality’ – insisting that everyone at the club is working towards the same target.

He continued: “The team is improving, both in terms of spirit and quality, as tonight everyone got involved with the spirit of sacrifice, including the youth team players on the bench.