Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, one of Nigeria’s most promising midfielders, has been benched once again for Lazio, raising fresh concerns over his match fitness. The Super Eagles star was not involved in Lazio’s latest clash against Genoa, despite earlier indications of recovery.
As the 2024/25 Serie A season enters its decisive stage, Fisayo’s absence is becoming a recurring issue that could impact both club ambitions and his place in the national team.
🩺 Dele-Bashiru’s Fitness Woes Resurface
Fisayo has been managing a nagging ankle injury picked up during Lazio’s goalless draw against Venezia in February. While he made a brief return with substitute appearances and a start against Atalanta, recent solo training sessions have reignited fears that he’s not yet fully fit.
The midfielder’s workload has been closely monitored by Lazio’s medical team, and his absence from full training suggests a precautionary approach by the club.
🧠 Baroni’s Calculated Caution
Lazio’s head coach Marco Baroni, who replaced Igor Tudor in July 2024, has opted for a conservative rotation strategy, keeping Fisayo out of recent matchday squads.
Baroni—known for his structured, transition-focused tactics—has guided Lazio to a competitive Serie A campaign and is keen to avoid risking a key asset like Fisayo ahead of a packed schedule.
His decision reflects the long-term vision for the club, especially as Lazio chase Champions League qualification.
🇳🇬 Super Eagles Implications Loom Large
The timing couldn’t be more delicate for Dele-Bashiru, with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on the horizon.
Having already missed Nigeria’s last round of qualifiers, another injury setback could push him further down the pecking order. With midfield competition heating up, consistent game time is essential for Dele-Bashiru to maintain relevance in José Peseiro’s plans.
📊 Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio Stats This Season
Despite the setbacks, Dele-Bashiru has clocked:
- 28 appearances across all competitions
- 2 goals
- 3 assists
- A contract extension that keeps him at the club until 2028
These numbers underscore his importance to the Lazio project—if he can stay fit.
🔄 Possible Midfield Replacements
In Dele-Bashiru’s absence, Baroni has relied on the likes of Luis Alberto, Kamada, and Rovella. While the trio offers control and balance, they lack the direct, progressive style that Dele-Bashiru brings to the midfield.
His ability to break lines, drive forward, and create in tight spaces is what separates him—and it’s exactly what Lazio will need in crunch fixtures ahead.
🔮 What Next for Dele-Bashiru?
Here are three scenarios likely to unfold:
- Gradual Reintroduction – Baroni may be preserving Dele-Bashiru for decisive fixtures and reintroducing him slowly.
- Extended Recovery – If fitness doesn’t improve, more time on the sidelines is likely, especially with Baroni’s long-term view.
- National Team Risk – Continued inactivity could cost him a Super Eagles call-up, just months before AFCON 2025.
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🧨 Final Word: Patience Tested
While Lazio continues to climb under Marco Baroni, the situation with Dele-Bashiru remains a concern. For the player, the club, and Nigeria, it’s a waiting game—one that hinges entirely on his return to peak condition.
If Dele-Bashiru can shake off this injury cycle and regain rhythm, he still has the tools to become a standout in both Serie A and the African football scene.
For now, patience is the only play—but time waits for no one in football.
