Dele-Bashiru Impresses Sarri And Ready To Make His Mark

In the space of just a few friendlies, Fisayo Dele Bashiru has gone from a quiet figure in training to one of Maurizio Sarri’s most eye catching performers. The Nigerian midfielder, who joined Lazio from Hatayspor last summer, delivered a standout display against Burnley that may have secured a prominent role in the coach’s plans for the new season.

His defining moment came with a display of pure strength. A shoulder to shoulder challenge won him possession deep in midfield, and from there he calmly picked out Pedro, who then set up Matteo Cancellieri for the decisive goal. It was a move that summed up what Dele Bashiru brings: raw power, direct running, and the ability to turn defence into attack in an instant.

As reported by Il Messaggero, the 23 year old is developing into a “loose cannon” in Lazio’s engine room. In a midfield often built on structure and methodical build up, his unpredictability and energy offer a welcome alternative. His physical presence makes up for the occasional lack of finesse, giving Sarri a different option when the match calls for intensity.

It has not been an easy journey to this point. Early in pre season, Dele Bashiru struggled to fully grasp the tactical demands of Sarri’s system. The breakthrough came in the friendly against Galatasaray, but it was the match against Burnley, played in England where he grew up, that seemed to unlock his confidence.

Now Sarri wants even more from him. The coach is pushing the midfielder to get forward and score more goals. Last season, despite averaging just 52 minutes per game, Dele Bashiru managed five goals and three assists, a return that hints at his potential in the final third. At Formello, there is a strong belief that Sarri can help him add this extra edge to his game.

With the summer schedule drawing to a close, starting with Saturday’s friendly in Rieti against Atromitos, Sarri hopes his new found midfield weapon can cap pre season with at least one goal. If Dele Bashiru can blend his power with sharper attacking instincts, he could emerge as one of Lazio’s surprise success stories of the season.