Former Chelsea and Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri has given a strong endorsement to Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, signaling renewed hope for the Super Eagles star at Lazio ahead of the 2025/26 Serie A season.
Dele-Bashiru, who joined Lazio from Turkish side Hatayspor in 2024, had a challenging debut season in Italy under former coach Marco Baroni. Despite limited playing time, the 24-year-old still managed to register five goals and three assists in 29 appearances.
However, questions about his future at the club emerged this summer, with rumors suggesting a potential exit due to his inconsistent involvement.
Sarri, however, appears to have other plans. Speaking on the midfielder’s potential, the veteran coach said: “Dele-Bashiru is a very strong guy who, if he manages to learn a few moves, can give us a big hand.”
This public vote of confidence could be pivotal for Dele-Bashiru, who now has a fresh opportunity to thrive under Sarri’s tactically disciplined system. Lazio have begun preseason preparations, featuring friendly matches against Avellino, Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, Burnley, and Atromitos.
These games offer the perfect platform for the Nigerian international to showcase his readiness for a larger role in the coming campaign.
With Lazio set to kick off their Serie A season on August 24 away to newly-promoted Como, Dele-Bashiru will be pushing to make the starting XI and cement his place both in the squad and in the plans of the Super Eagles ahead of the next international window.
Sarri’s backing could be the turning point in what may be a career-defining season for Dele-Bashiru, as he looks to silence his critics and fulfill his potential on the big stage.
