Former Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri has successfully undergone heart surgery in Rome, his club SS Lazio has confirmed. The 66-year-old Italian was diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat, known as atrial fibrillation, and has now had a procedure called catheter ablation.
Details of Sarri's Health Procedure
The surgery took place at the Tor Vergata Polyclinic in Rome and was performed by renowned specialist Professor Andrea Natale. Lazio's official statement confirmed the operation had a "positive outcome." Professor Natale is an international pioneer with over three decades of experience treating this specific condition.
Atrial fibrillation causes a rapid and often erratic heartbeat, which can lead to symptoms including fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. It also increases the long-term risk of stroke. The treatment Sarri received, catheter ablation, is a minimally invasive procedure that targets and corrects the areas of the heart causing the abnormal rhythm.
Sarri's Coaching Career and Immediate Future
Despite the health scare, Lazio are hopeful their manager will resume his role "in the coming days." In his absence, assistant coach Marco Ianni will lead training sessions. The team's next Serie A fixture is a significant home match against reigning champions Napoli on Sunday, January 4.
Sarri, famous for his 'Sarri-ball' philosophy and his constant presence on the touchline with a cigarette, managed Chelsea for the 2018/19 season. He led the Blues to victory in the Europa League final but also endured a famous League Cup final controversy when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted ahead of a penalty shootout against Manchester City.
After a stint at Juventus, Sarri initially left Lazio in March 2025 before returning to the Roman club in June this year on a two-year contract, following a 15-month break from the game. Lazio currently sit in eighth place in Serie A during the winter break, having navigated a summer transfer embargo due to financial issues.
Club Statement and Well-Wishes
The club's statement expressed gratitude to the medical team, saying: "SS Lazio and the coach thank the Tor Vergata Polyclinic and Professor Natale’s team for their professionalism and the quality of care they guarantee for all patients." The football world will now await news of Sarri's full recovery and swift return to the dugout.
