New Lazio manager Mauricio Sarri has admitted uncertainty about the role of Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in his squad.
Sarri, 66, returned to the club earlier this month as a replacement for Marco Baroni, who was appointed when he resigned from his role 15 months ago.
Sarri rejoins Lazio
Sarri was first appointed in 2021 by the Biancocelesti, after he was dismissed from his previous managerial role at Juventus.
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After spending three years at the club, the Italian resigned in 2024 taking a personal leave from work.
The 66-year old returned to his role at the club, signing a two-year contract to replace Marco Baroni who was dismissed as the club finished in seventh place.
What Sarri said
Speaking to LaLazioSiamoNoi as per SosFanta, Sarri said: “I don’t know what Dele-Bashiru is like in dribbling, let’s see. I saw a player playing as an attacking midfielder who everyone tells me isn’t an attacking midfielder.”
Dele-Bashiru who joined Lazio from Turkish side Hatayspor in July 2024 initially on a loan deal, with an obligation to buy, has been linked with an exit from the club after a debut season of mixed performances.
“Let’s try to bring him back to midfield and see what evolution he can have. I’ve heard good things about him in the non-Lazio jobs. And I’m not talking about the Lazio environment, but about sports directors from other clubs. He probably has some qualities, obviously”, Sarri added.
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Doubts on Dele-Bashiru’s future
The Nigerian international has attracted lots of interest from teams in Europe amid speculation of an exit due to Sarri’s arrival.
However, the Italian is expected to assess the midfielder during the preseason to determine if he fits into his plan.
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