Nigeria Players Abroad
Rumour Mills: Sarri identifies midfield role as ideal fit for Dele-Bashiru at Lazio
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Returning Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri has shared early insights into his plans for Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, suggesting a more defined midfield role could unlock the player’s potential next season.
Dele-Bashiru, 23, initially joined Lazio on loan from Turkish club Hatayspor and was later signed permanently for €5.43 million after a promising start under former manager Marco Baroni.
Last season, Baroni deployed Dele-Bashiru across multiple positions — from central midfield to the left wing and attacking midfield — a tactical shuffle that limited his rhythm and overall impact.
Despite making 29 appearances across all competitions, he featured for just 943 minutes in Serie A and started only 12 league games.
In an interview with LaLazioSiamoNoi, Sarri expressed cautious optimism about the midfielder’s potential.
“I saw a player playing as an attacking midfielder, who everyone tells me isn’t one,” Sarri said. “Let’s try to bring him back to midfield and see what evolution he can have.”
The former Chelsea and Juventus boss also noted that Dele-Bashiru has earned praise beyond the Lazio environment.
“I’ve heard good things about him — not just here, but from sporting directors at other clubs. He probably has some qualities, obviously.”
With Sarri now at the helm, Dele-Bashiru will be hoping for a more settled role and greater opportunities to establish himself as a regular starter in the 2025/26 campaign.
