Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has hailed his development during his first season at Lazio, describing himself as “much stronger” both mentally and physically after adapting to the demanding tactical landscape of Italian football.
The Nigerian midfielder, who joined the Serie A outfit last summer, says he has no regrets about making the switch from the Turkish league to Italy, believing the move has helped elevate his game at a crucial stage in his career.
Speaking in an interview with SportsBoom.com, the former Manchester City academy player made clear that joining Lazio was a calculated decision rooted in ambition.
“They gave me everything I wanted. I accepted the project because, at this stage of my career, that’s what I want. I want to play top-level football in a top-level league, and also for a big club,” said the 24-year-old.
Renowned for its emphasis on tactics and structure, Serie A posed an initial challenge for Dele-Bashiru, who admits that adjusting to the Italian game required time and patience.
However, the midfielder believes that the steep learning curve has ultimately refined his overall play. “Italian football is much more tactically demanding than other leagues, and it’s a challenge I’m relishing right now,” he revealed. “Thanks to the tactical rigor and positional discipline expected in Italy, I’ve improved week after week.”
After enduring a series of injury setbacks that disrupted his momentum earlier in the campaign, Dele-Bashiru is now back to full fitness and eager to make a strong impact in the final stretch of the season. “As everyone knows, I had a few injuries that slowed my progress, but now I feel much better, much stronger,” he said with confidence.
Central to his aspirations is a deep understanding of the tactical framework set by the Lazio coaching staff. The midfielder is determined to integrate seamlessly into the system and believes his preferred role, operating box to box, could offer the team real value.
“My favourite position would be box to box midfielder… And when I’m 100% fit and have understood everything tactically, we’ll definitely have a great season together,” he stated.
Reflecting on his footballing journey so far, Dele-Bashiru credited the foundational training at Manchester City and his experiences in Turkey for shaping his character and preparing him for Italy’s elite level.
“The foundations I acquired at Manchester City are excellent. The Turkish league is also good,” he said. “I think I have the right mentality. The coaches, my teammates, everyone helps me.”
Dele-Bashiru’s evolution this season is not just a testament to his resilience but also a sign of the long-term potential Lazio saw in him upon his arrival.
With his form returning and confidence growing, the midfielder looks ready to repay that faith in the closing weeks of the season, as he eyes a more influential role in Rome.
As Lazio continues its campaign in Serie A, the Nigerian international’s progress will be closely watched, not only by club supporters but also by national team selectors, keen to see how far his talents can take him on the European stage.
