Stefano Pioli has extended his contract with the Italian Serie A outfit

After a brilliant campaign with Lazio, manager Stefano Pioli has extended his contract with the Italian Serie A outfit. The team almost managed to finish above their arch rivals Roma in the league table.

This was an extremely commendable achievement, but the real bonus comes in the form of a qualification to the Champions League. The 49-year-old replaced Vladimir Petkovic as well as a manager last summer. He had arrived from a brilliant campaign with Bologna, but Lazio were not expected to reach the third place by any means. Aside from this league position, Lazio also reached the Coppa Italia final where they were beaten by Juventus.

The club have confirmed that the contract of the coach has been extended until 2018. Previously, his deal was set to expire in two years. This is seen as a huge reward for his work. Lazio could have also qualified for the Champions League next season automatically if they had taken more than two wins that they managed in the last five matches. After having extended the contract of their manager, the club will now shift to the focus towards retaining the top players like Felipe Anderson. The 22-year-old has been linked with moves to Manchester United and Chelsea.

“SS Lazio announces that it has extended the contract with Coach Stefano Pioli until 30 June 2017.S.S. Lazio will have the option to prolong the contract of Coach Pioli until 30 June 2018,” read a club statement about manager Pioli.”Next year? All I know is I’ll be playing for Lazio.I only recently renewed my contract for another five years. I’m thinking about that shirt, and nothing else.I don’t know of any offers, my future is at Lazio,” said Anderson. Lazio were one most entertaining teams in the league last season.