Nigeria midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru could be handed a fresh opportunity at Lazio after the Serie A club officially appointed Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season. The announcement signals the start of a new chapter at the Stadio Olimpico following the departure of Maurizio Sarri.
Dele-Bashiru spent last season continuing his development in Italy’s top flight and remains one of Nigeria’s promising midfielders abroad. The dynamic midfielder featured during the campaign and earned recognition for his powerful runs, physical presence, and ability to contribute in attacking phases. His performances have also strengthened his standing within the Super Eagles setup.
Lazio announced Gattuso’s appointment in an official statement released on the club’s website.
The club stated:
S.S. Lazio S.p.A. announces that it has appointed Mr. Gennaro Gattuso as Head Coach of the First Team.”
It added:
”The Club warmly welcomes its new manager and is confident that his experience, professionalism, and determination will contribute to achieving the Club’s sporting objectives.”
The former AC Milan and Napoli manager succeeds Sarri and will now lead preparations for the new Serie A season.
Gattuso arrives in Rome with an impressive football résumé. During his playing career, he won two Serie A titles, two UEFA Champions League trophies, and a FIFA Club World Cup with AC Milan. He also earned 73 caps for Italy and played a crucial role in the country’s 2006 FIFA World Cup triumph.
His most notable achievement as a manager came in 2020 when he guided Napoli to Coppa Italia success, defeating Juventus in a dramatic penalty shootout final. Earlier in his coaching career, he led Pisa to promotion to Serie B during the 2015–16 season, highlighting his ability to deliver results at different levels of the game.
Gattuso’s arrival could reshape Lazio’s midfield plans ahead of the new campaign. Dele-Bashiru is expected to be assessed during pre-season as the new coaching staff evaluates the squad.
The Nigerian international will hope to earn a bigger role under a coach renowned for demanding intensity, commitment, and tactical discipline from his players. A strong pre-season could help Dele-Bashiru establish himself as an important figure in Lazio’s plans for the upcoming season.
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