Gattuso’s Lazio Contract Includes Curious Automatic Renewal Clause

Gennaro Gattuso has been officially appointed as the new Lazio manager, but a peculiar stipulation in his contract has raised some eyebrows.

Lazio & Gennaro Gattuso Sign 1+1 Contract

The 48-year-old tactician has replaced Maurizio Sarri, who signed for Atalanta after terminating his contract with Lazio following a troublesome campaign. The former Italy head coach has signed a one-year deal worth €1.5 million, and it includes an option for a second season. The official confirmation finally arrived on Tuesday.

How Gattuso Can Extend His Lazio Contract

According to Il Messaggero, Gattuso would trigger the automatic contract by finishing in any of the Top 12 positions of the Serie A table. The Roman newspaper suggests that his stipulation depicts Lazio’s modest objectives ahead of the new campaign.

The Biancocelesti have already missed out on European football twice in a row, finishing 7th under Marco Baroni last term, and 9th with Sarri this season. The downward trajectory could continue, especially as the club works to sell its defensive backbone, mainly Alessio Romagnoli, Mario Gila, and Ivan Provedel.

What Happens If Lazio Finish in Mid-Table?

While any Top-12 place would be sufficient for Gattuso to extend his contract for another year, it doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll keep his job, as the hierarchy would still be able to sack him. But in this case, Lazio would still have to pay the Calabrian his salary for another year, unless they can reach a settlement.