Petar Ratkov unveiled by Lazio after Taty Castellanos exit; club insists Sarri's “I don’t know him” line was a joke. Ratkov aims to fill the striker void and has already made a cameo. Betting impact: his arrival may shorten anytime-scorer odds once he starts regularly and push Lazio’s over/under goals markets higher, so punters might back Lazio to score but wait before backing Ratkov for anytime scorer markets.
Lazio Complete Signing of Petar Ratkov as Castellanos Departs
Lazio have introduced 2003-born striker Petar Ratkov as the long-term replacement for Taty Castellanos, who left the club after requesting a transfer. The young Serbian forward has already made his debut off the bench against Hellas Verona and is viewed as part of the club’s project to rejuvenate the squad.
Fabiani Frames Sarri’s Comments as Humor, Not Dismissal
Sporting director Angelo Fabiani moved to defuse fallout from a remark by Maurizio Sarri suggesting he didn’t “know” the new signing. Fabiani stressed that Sarri’s comment was a Tuscan-style joke and a motivational line rather than an indication that the coach hadn’t scouted Ratkov. He insisted Sarri and his staff had tracked the player and seen him in key matches, including Bologna vs Salzburg.
Scouting and Squad Planning
Fabiani emphasised that Ratkov fits Lazio’s technical blueprint and that the signing was carefully planned. The club’s scouting network monitored the forward over time, with confidence in his ability to complement the team’s attacking options.
Claudio Lotito Explains Transfer Strategy
Club president Claudio Lotito confirmed Lazio had monitored Ratkov extensively and moved decisively when Castellanos asked to leave. Lotito described the deal as part of a broader recruitment plan, noting that arrivals were chosen with specific tactical roles in mind and that Ratkov brings box presence and attacking instincts expected to help the team.
Ratkov: Ready to Embrace the Challenge at the Olimpico
Ratkov spoke about his eagerness to settle in and contribute, describing Lazio as one of Europe’s biggest clubs and expressing the desire to stay long-term. He referenced advice from established teammates and said he feels prepared for the step up.
Playing Profile and Inspirations
The forward characterises himself as tall and technically capable, able to link play and provide assists as well as finishing chances. He cites Robert Lewandowski as an idol and says he has modelled aspects of his game on the Polish striker. Ratkov stressed his priority is helping Lazio qualify for European competition.
Betting Markets to Watch
Ratkov’s arrival creates immediate market movement: expect Lazio’s team goals lines to firm slightly and Ratkov’s anytime-scorer prices to shorten if he earns regular minutes. Punters may favour backing Lazio to score in matches while holding off on heavy investment in Ratkov-specific bets until he secures a starting role.
Brentford send scout to watch Cancellieri as Lazio beat Verona
Lazio unveiled their new striker, Petar Ratkov, in a press conference held on Friday, but Angelo Fabian stole the limelight with the explanation he gave for Maurizio Sarri’s recent statement.Lazio U...
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