How Isaksen Regained His Role at Lazio Following Near Summer Exit | OneFootball

Gustav Isaksen has only been at Lazio for just over a year. But judging by the numerous highs and lows endured during this period, it surely feels as if he’s been dwelling at the Stadio Olimpico for much longer.

The Hjerk native rose through the ranks of Midtjylland, which has been one of the best talent factories in Denmark. The young winger joined Maurizio Sarri’s ranks last season, and bide his time waiting for the right opportunity to come.

Eventually, Mattia Zaccagni’s injury allowed him to break into the starting XI after winning over the manager’s trust with a series of energetic displays on the flanks. But while many Lazio stars rued Sarri’s departure, none has been more negatively affected than the Denmark international who was immediately cast aside by Igor Tudor.

The Croatian tactician simply considered Isaksen inapt to his 3-4-2-1 tactical system. Had the 45-year-old lingered at Formello, it would have certainly spelled the end of the Dane’s time in the Italian capital.

But despite Tudor’s departure, Isaksen wasn’t instantly reinstated to the starting lineup by Marco Baroni who also seemed to have some doubts about the winger during pre-season. This almost resulted in a summer transfer to Celtic who were keen to land the player. Nevertheless, the 23-year-old opted against moving to Glasgow, preferring to remain at Lazio and win back his place.

Isaksen Looking to Become a Protagonist for Baroni’s Lazio

While he started his campaign as a second, or perhaps even third, choice on the right wing behind Tijjani Noslin (and potentially Loum Tchaouna), Isaksen’s impact off the bench against Udinese and Milan has seemingly convinced Baroni who will reportedly field him as a starter for the first time this season when he hosts his former employers Hellas Verona at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday night.

The winger’s first appearance as a starter will give an important indication of whether he’s truly the right profile to light up the flank in Baroni’s system. A good display against the Gialloblu would earn him recurring staring roles in bigger fixtures, including the Europa League clashes and especially the famous derby della Capitale against eternal rivals AS Roma.

Last season, the Denmark international made 28 Serie A appearances, contributing with three goals and one assist. He also had three outings in the Coppa Italia, five in the UEFA Champions League and one in the Italian Super Cup tournament which was held in Riyadh.