Lazio manager Marco Baroni has emphasized the immense potential of Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru but has urged the player to address key aspects of his game to thrive in Serie A.
Dele-Bashiru joined Lazio on loan from Turkish Super Lig side Hatayaspor during the summer transfer window, with the Biancocelesti holding a mandatory option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.
The 22-year-old has contributed two goals and two assists in 11 appearances across all competitions, showing glimpses of promise as he adjusts to the demands of Italian football.
Baroni, while acknowledging the Super Eagles star’s progress, has stressed the need for him to improve his adaptability and consistency.
“Dele-Bashiru has great potential, but it’s clear he has to find the rhythm of the match, the mentality, the physicality, and the quality,” Baroni told Noi Biancocelesti. “It’s not easy to transition from a different league to the Italian one, where mistakes are not tolerated.”
The Nigerian midfielder recently scored his first goal for Lazio during their Europa League debut against Dinamo Kyiv, earning him more opportunities in Baroni’s starting lineup.
The coach revaled Dele-Bashiru’s physical attributes and his ability to attack as he described him as a player with significant potential for the future.
“Dele-Bashiru is a very physical player but also has quality; he’s very good at running forward,” Baroni added. “It’ll be a difficult test, and it’s right to see how he behaves because he’s improving. I think he’s a player with a very important prospect.”
With four goal contributions so far this season, Dele-Bashiru’s performances have shown flashes of brilliance, but Lazio’s demanding environment requires greater consistency.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
