Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri has undergone a successful minor heart operation following a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, with the club confirming his expected return to duties in the coming days.
The 66-year-old Italian tactician received treatment on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Policlinico Tor Vergata in Rome. In an official statement, SS Lazio announced that Sarri underwent a transcatheter ablation procedure using pulsed field ablation (PFA) technology.
“The operation, performed by Professor Andrea Natale, an internationally recognised pioneer with more than 30 years of experience in treating this condition, was successfully completed,” the statement read. It added that the club’s medical staff, including Dr Italo Leo, were present during the procedure.
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder that causes an irregular and often rapid heartbeat, potentially leading to symptoms like fatigue or increased risk of complications if untreated. The minimally invasive ablation technique aims to restore normal rhythm by targeting problematic heart tissue.
Sarri, reappointed as Lazio manager in June 2025 on a two-year deal after a previous stint ending in March 2024, has guided the team to eighth place in Serie A this season, with six wins from 17 matches. The Biancocelesti are scheduled to host champions Napoli on January 4, 2026, in their next fixture.
The former Chelsea boss, who won the Europa League during his 2018–19 season at Stamford Bridge, boasts a storied career. He rose from lower-league management while working as a banker, achieving prominence by promoting Empoli to Serie A in 2014 and leading Napoli to consecutive second-place finishes. His trophy haul includes the 2019–20 Scudetto with Juventus.
The intervention was described as routine, with reports emphasising the positive outcome and short recovery timeline. The club also expressed gratitude to the medical team at Tor Vergata for their professionalism.
This health scare comes midway through a challenging campaign for Lazio, but the swift resolution allows focus to return to on-pitch matters as Sarri prepares for a quick comeback on the touchline.
