“Lazio Legend Bruno Giordano Highlights Dele-Bashiru’s Ideal Role on the Pitch”
Bruno Giordano, a Lazio legend and retired Italian international, has weighed in on the best position for Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Speaking ahead of Lazio’s clash with Bologna, Giordano offered tactical insights that could shape how the Manchester City academy graduate is deployed in upcoming matches.
Giordano believes Dele-Bashiru thrives as an attacking midfielder—a role he has often played for the Nigeria national team. However, he also acknowledged the player’s ability to step into a central midfield position when needed. “I think Dele-Bashiru can be a midfielder only in an emergency. As we also see with the Nigerian national team, he is more naturally suited to playing in the three-quarters,” Giordano said in an interview with Radio Laziale.
Dele-Bashiru’s international and club form has been a mixed bag. Despite playing the full 90 minutes in Nigeria’s recent 2-1 defeat to Rwanda, his club performances have been inconsistent. After a strong start with Lazio, where he played a pivotal role in a 3-1 win over Venezia, he has since struggled for regular game time, making just seven appearances across all competitions and scoring once.
Giordano also highlighted the importance of tactical flexibility, praising Dele-Bashiru’s adaptability. “He is a player inclined to play facing the opponent’s goal. While he can be an alternative in central midfield during injuries, it depends on the match and the coach’s choices. Players like Matías Vecino can also adapt to advanced roles.”
As Lazio looks to maintain momentum after the international break, Giordano’s analysis could influence how coach Maurizio Sarri utilizes Dele-Bashiru’s skillset. The Nigerian midfielder’s versatility offers options, but unlocking his potential will depend on consistent opportunities and strategic deployment.