Baroni wants more from Dele-Bashiru

Following a near-flawless performance from Nigeria international Dele Dele-Bashiru during Lazio’s victory over Napoli on Sunday, head coach Marco Baroni admitted that the midfielder was a player with great potential but challenged him to improve.

Dele-Bashiru was in action for 90 minutes and played a crucial role as Lazio secured a 1-0 win over Napoli at the Diego Maradona Stadium with his energy and determination on display.

The victory followed a 3-1 triumph in the Coppa Italia just four days earlier, where the 24-year-old also featured prominently, playing 73 minutes.

At the Diego Maradona Dele-Bashiru was at the heart of everything good for the visitors, with the midfielder completing 97 per cent of his passes, succeeding with 100 per cent of his dribbles and ground duels, and contributing significantly on the defensive end.

His efforts included two clearances, one blocked shot, and two interceptions, while losing possession twice throughout the match.

According to Sofascore, only three Lazio players earned a higher rating than the Nigerian international.

Baroni expressed satisfaction with Dele-Bashiru’s progress but emphasised the need for further development to adapt fully to the demands of Italian football.

“I am happy to work with these guys; they are good, I give them opportunities, and they work hard,” Baroni said during a press conference, as reported by Noi Biancocelesti.

“For us, there is only work. We have these players to carry forward in three competitions. I work on everyone, not just ten players, focusing on those who can grow.”

“Dele-Bashiru has great potential, but it’s clear he has to find the rhythm of the match, the mentality, the physicality, and the quality. It’s not easy to transition from a different league to the Italian one, where mistakes are not tolerated.”

On loan from Turkish side Hatayspor, Dele-Bashiru has already contributed two goals and two assists in 11 appearances across all competitions for Lazio.