Lazio manager Marco Baroni has expressed confidence in young midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru's potential to become a top modern player.
The Nigeria international delivered an outstanding performance in Lazio's 3-0 away victory over Dynamo Kyiv in the Europa League, netting a goal and providing an assist for Boulaye Dia, who completed a brace on the night.
Ahead of the match, Baroni discussed deploying the 23-year-old in a more advanced trequartista role, and the former Hatayspor man delivered a performance that exceeded expectations.
“I moved up Dele-Bashiru, as he is a player who can give us forward runs even without the ball. He has great potential and is improving, so this feels like the right game for him to shine and I expect a lot from his performance,” the 61-year-old said.
Baroni highlights the path to greatness for Dele-Bashiru
While praising Dele-Bashiru's talent after the game, Baroni emphasised the importance of developing tactical awareness and providing room for growth by learning from mistakes.
“When I say that he needs to be built, I mean that he must focus more on tactics and how to fill the game rather than only when the ball is at his feet.
“Once he gets that, Dele-Bashiru will become a great modern midfielder,” he said.
Furthermore, Baroni stressed the significance of nurturing young talent, stating, “I am accustomed to working with young players and that often means taking the responsibility and pressure off their shoulders. The players should feel the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them.”
Dele-Bashiru's goal and assist on Wednesday night marked his first contributions in four competitive matches for the Italian side.
He joined Lazio on a season-long loan this summer, which includes an obligation to buy.
