'If that's with goals and assists' – Dele-Bashiru vows to prove himself under new Lazio coach

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has expressed his determination to improve his goal-scoring ability and overall performance under new Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri, as the 2025/2026 campaign approaches.

Dele-Bashiru featured in Lazio's 1-0 defeat to Fenerbahçe on Wednesday, starting the match before being substituted at the start of the second half.  

He was replaced by veteran defender Matías Vecino, as Sarri reshuffled his squad during the break.

Speaking to Lazio Style Channel (subscription required), the Nigerian international described the pre-season match as a useful test despite the result.

"It was good to get a few more minutes today in my legs. Of course it was a difficult match for the team. I think we are still adapting to the new tactics.

"We are improving every day in training so in a few games we will start showing it as soon as possible, I think every thing will go well."

Reflecting on his experience working under Sarri so far, the 24-year-old was optimistic about the Italian tactician’s impact on his development.

'He's a very, very top-level coach. Every one is happy to have him here. For me, a player that hasn't had that much experience at the highest level, it's important for me to be focused in training, listening to his tactics. 

"If I carry on with these trainings, I will grow to be a strong player."

Dele-Bashiru also outlined his ambitions for the new season, focusing on daily improvement and contributing more goals from midfield.

"Of course I am happy that I am still here for my second year at Lazio. I am looking forward to a very good season with the team.

"Hopefully we can qualify for Champions League. Hopefully we can have many good games for the fans. 

"For my objectives, just try to help the team as much as possible, if that's with goals and assists, if I'm giving me chance I'll try to prove myself.

"I am confident next season will go well for me and the team, let's see how it goes. 

"We'll take it one step at a time, let's have a good pre-season. Hopefully, we will win the next few games which will get us in a good position for the beginning of the season."

The former Manchester City academy player joined Lazio last summer following an impressive campaign at Hatayspor in Turkey. 

After losing to Fenerbahce in their latest friendly, Dele-Bashiru and his teammates are aiming to return to winning ways in Saturday's high profile friendly against another Istanbul giants, Galatasaray.

"When I was at Hatayspor, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray were very good teams, very difficult to play against. They have a lot of quality players that have played in all the top leagues before.

"The most important thing is to get an early goal and take the fans out of the match. If you can do that, then you should have a good game against them but it's always difficult to get an early goal against teams like this," Dele-Bashiru concluded. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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