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Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru may be poised for a change in his role under manager Maurizio Sarri as the 2025/26 season approaches, following remarks from the Italian coach.
The 24-year-old participated in 20 top-flight games last season, netting three goals and contributing one assist while Lazio concluded the 2024/25 season in seventh place.
Overall, he made 29 appearances in all competitions for the Rome-based club, scoring five goals and adding three assists from his midfield role.
Sarri has shared his views on the seven-time capped Nigerian international, indicating how he plans to incorporate Dele-Bashiru into his new strategy.
The 66-year-old manager has returned to the Stadio Olimpico after replacing Marco Baroni on June 2 and is eager to make an immediate impact in his second term in Rome.
In an interview with LaLazioSiamoNoi, Sarri commented on Dele-Bashiru, saying, “I’m not sure about Dele-Bashiru's dribbling skills; we’ll see. I’ve witnessed a player act as a trequartista who everyone claims isn’t one, so let’s see if we can revert him to midfield and observe how he evolves.”
He also noted, “I’ve received positive feedback about him from professionals outside Lazio, including sporting directors from other clubs. He evidently possesses some talents.”
Sarri's remarks could spark speculation regarding Dele-Bashiru’s future, especially with several Premier League teams reportedly showing interest in the Nigerian, similar to the situation during the January transfer window.
Dele-Bashiru, who has scored two goals for the national team, originally came to Lazio on loan from Turkish side Hatayspor in the summer of 2024 during his debut season.
However, the Italian club is set to make the deal permanent as agreed in his transfer contract.
His chances of securing a regular spot in the starting lineup will depend on how effectively he adjusts to Sarri's requirements.
