Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri has made a bold statement about Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, ending weeks of uncertainty surrounding the player’s future at the club.
At the start of the summer, many believed Dele-Bashiru would be on his way out of Lazio.
His limited time on the pitch last season raised questions, especially after Sarri took over as head coach. The former Hatayspor star played 29 games but struggled to become a regular starter. He still managed five goals and three assists during that spell.
But things now seem to be taking a fresh turn.
Sarri’s Unexpected Praise Shakes Things Up
Despite early rumours linking Dele-Bashiru with an exit, coach Sarri has now made his position clear. The Italian tactician noted that the Super Eagles midfielder has something special and could become a key figure this coming season.
“Dele-Bashiru is a very strong guy who, if he manages to learn a few moves, can give us a big hand,” Sarri was quoted as saying.
The 23-year-old has been fully involved in Lazio’s preseason training in Italy as Sarri works to rebuild the squad and introduce his new playing style. The team is preparing for a string of friendly matches against clubs like Avellino, Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, Burnley, and Atromitos.
These games could be Dele-Bashiru’s big chance to prove himself.
Lazio’s Serie A journey for the 2025/26 season will begin on August 24 against Como at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. Napoli and Sassuolo will open the campaign a day earlier.
