SS Lazio: Maurizio Sarri's first words on Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

While rumors are swirling about Fisayo Dele-Bashiru's potential departure this summer, Maurizio Sarri, newly appointed as head coach of SS Lazio, has spoken for the first time about the Nigerian's situation and his future at the Romanian club.

The new Lazio manager prefers to assess Dele-Bashiru during pre-season preparations before making any decisions about his future. At a press conference on Monday, June 15, the Italian tactician admitted he still does not know what role the 24-year-old will play in his squad.

"I don't know how good Dele-Bashiru is when it comes to dribbling. I see a player who operates as an attacking midfielder, yet everyone tells me he's not really an attacking midfielder. Let's try to move him back into the midfield and see how he develops. I've heard good things about him in positions other than the one at Lazio. And I'm not talking about inside the Lazio environment, but from sporting directors at other clubs. He probably has qualities," said Maurizio Sarri.

Despite promising stats for a debut season—five goals and three assists in 29 appearances—Dele-Bashiru still needs to convince the staff that he can take his game to the next level. Sarri wants to test his consistency and commitment during training this summer.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.