Dele-Bashiru on Trial as Lazio Coach to Decide Super Eagles Star’s Fate

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s future at Lazio hinges on his performance during the upcoming pre-season under new manager Maurizio Sarri. Sarri, who returned to Lazio after a 15-month hiatus, has expressed uncertainty about the Nigerian midfielder’s optimal role within his tactical setup.In a recent press conference, Sarri acknowledged the need to assess Dele-Bashiru’s capabilities during pre-season to determine his best position, stating, “I don’t know how good Dele-Bashiru is when it comes to dribbling. Let’s try to move him back into the midfield and see how he develops”.

Dele-Bashiru, 24, joined Lazio from Hatayspor on a loan deal with an obligation to buy clause. During the 2024/25 Serie A season, he made 29 appearances, scoring five goals and providing three assists. Despite these contributions, his role in the team has been inconsistent, with some performances leading to early substitutions, such as in the Rome derby where he was replaced at halftime.

Sarri’s assessment during pre-season will be crucial in determining whether Dele-Bashiru fits into Lazio’s midfield plans for the upcoming season. The club’s sporting director has indicated that while there is interest in Dele-Bashiru from other clubs, Lazio’s priority is to strengthen the squad without dismantling it.

Editorial

The uncertainty surrounding Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s future at Lazio underscores the complexities of player integration into top-tier European football. While his statistics from the previous season five goals and three assists in 29 appearances suggest a player of potential, the inconsistencies in his performances highlight the challenges faced by many talents adjusting to the demands of Serie A.

Maurizio Sarri’s approach to reassess Dele-Bashiru’s role during pre-season is both prudent and necessary. In a league renowned for its tactical discipline, versatility is a double-edged sword. Players who can adapt to multiple positions may find themselves lacking a defined role, leading to sporadic performances. Dele-Bashiru’s adaptability could be an asset, but only if he is placed in a position that maximises his strengths.

Lazio’s interest in retaining Dele-Bashiru, despite external enquiries, reflects a commitment to nurturing talent within their ranks. However, this commitment must be matched by a clear tactical vision that aligns with the player’s abilities. Without such alignment, both the club and the player risk stagnation.

As the pre-season approaches, the onus is on both Sarri and Dele-Bashiru to demonstrate that their collaboration can yield success. For Dele-Bashiru, this is an opportunity to prove his worth and secure his place in Lazio’s future. For Sarri, it is a chance to mould a player who could become a cornerstone of his midfield strategy.

Did You Know?

1. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru began his professional career at Manchester City’s youth academy before moving to Sheffield Wednesday in 2019.
2. During his time at Hatayspor in the Turkish Süper Lig, Dele-Bashiru scored 8 goals and provided 5 assists in 36 matches.
3. Lazio secured Dele-Bashiru on a loan deal with an obligation to buy clause, reportedly worth €4 million.
4. In the 2024/25 Serie A season, Dele-Bashiru featured in 29 matches for Lazio, contributing 5 goals and 3 assists.
5. Lazio’s sporting director confirmed that Juventus had made initial enquiries regarding Dele-Bashiru’s availability in January 2025.