Lazio manager Marco Baroni is considering an unexpected tactical switch for midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with the Nigerian potentially playing as a full-back in Thursday’s Europa League clash against Sporting Braga, Soccernet.football understands.
Dele-Bashiru’s role at the club has become a subject of debate, with growing tension between Baroni and Lazio’s sporting director Angelo Fabiani over his deployment.
Following Lazio’s Serie A defeat to Fiorentina, Fabiani appeared frustrated when questioned about the absence of a midfield signing, pointing instead to Dele-Bashiru’s presence on the bench. That comment highlighted the club’s expectations for the 23-year-old, who arrived from Hatayspor on loan last summer.
Despite flashes of promise — including four goals and two assists in 19 appearances — Dele-Bashiru has struggled to secure a consistent role in the team.
Baroni has experimented with him across multiple positions, including central midfield, mezzala, attacking midfield, and left-wing. However, the Nigerian’s inconsistency has prevented him from cementing a starting spot.
Now, according to Il Messaggero via Lazio News, Baroni could take a radical step by deploying Dele-Bashiru as a full-back against Braga if required. Lazio’s management appears determined to justify their summer investment in the former Manchester City academy player, but Baroni remains unconvinced about his ideal role.
This tactical uncertainty is evident in Baroni’s handling of Dele-Bashiru in recent weeks. He was substituted at half-time in Lazio’s 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina and was left out of the starting lineup against Real Sociedad in the Europa League last week. Yet, with injuries and squad depth concerns, he may now be asked to adapt to an entirely new position.
Whether Dele-Bashiru thrives in a defensive role — or if this latest experiment adds to Lazio’s ongoing struggles — remains to be seen. One thing is certain: all eyes will be on how Baroni utilizes the Nigerian when Lazio take the field in Braga on Thursday night.