Fisayo Dele-Bashiru: Unleashing Potential at Lazio

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru's path to revealing his unique qualities at Lazio as he adapts to the Italian top division

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru's journey with "Lazio" in Italy can be described as one of gradual yet steady progress. This midfielder, on loan from "Hatayspor" with a purchase obligation, has faced the ups and downs of adapting to a new league, but recent performances suggest he is beginning to find his stride. In "Lazio’s" last six matches, he has featured in five, starting four of them, and has tallied two goals while maintaining an average rating of 7.0. These numbers reflect growing confidence and adaptability in the Italian top tier and European contests.

Nevertheless, coach Marco Baroni remains measured in his expectations, highlighting areas that need refinement. While praising Dele-Bashiru's potential, Baroni emphasizes sharp game understanding and positional discipline. He points out: “He is a lad who must understand our football, and to do so, he must train and play. We will give him this opportunity. He needs to improve his posture. Opponents often close him down, not giving him a chance to break forward. But when he opens his shoulders, he is devastating. He has to become a ball-winner, but that's not easy. It's a complete overhaul, but his contribution is extraordinary.”

At the season's outset, Dele-Bashiru mostly made substitute appearances and played in UEFA Europa League fixtures, where his abilities came through but lacked the consistency Baroni demanded.

The tactical dialogue: should "Lazio" unleash Dele-Bashiru more freely? Baroni stresses the importance of grooming him into a comprehensive midfielder, but debates within "Lazio" increasingly question if allowing him to express his assertive and creative skills, unchecked by efforts to alter his style, is preferable. The former "Sheffield Wednesday" player shows himself in more attacking roles, whether as a driving central midfielder or as a roaming midfielder. Baroni's wish to refine his positioning and defensive skills, although aligning with traditional Serie A principles, might restrain qualities that make him unique. His capability for powerful runs, progressive passes, and contributions in attack could be better served in advanced roles.

From 139 professional appearances, 88 have been as a central midfielder, with 13 goals and 8 assists. He has also played as an attacking midfielder (32 games, 5 goals, 5 assists), as a left winger (6 games, 2 goals, 1 assist), and even as a right-back in two matches. With "Lazio" battling on multiple fronts, it's clear that Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has the potential to be pivotal. Instead of molding him into someone he is not, Baroni might better adapt his tactical approach to suit Dele-Bashiru's strengths. By continuing to provide such chances, "Lazio" could unlock the full potential of a player already proving he belongs at the top level.