Dele-Bashiru poised to join forces with Gattuso at Italian club Lazio

Nigeria's Fisayo Dele-Bashiru will have a new manager to report to in the upcoming season, as Lazio has officially confirmed the hiring of Gennaro Gattuso, a former Italy international, as the club's head coach.

n

The announcement was made on Tuesday, following weeks of speculation that began when Gattuso was spotted at Lazio's training centre in Formello, Rome on June 3, where he met with president Claudio Lotito and other club directors to discuss transfer plans and season preparations.

n

The 48-year-old Gattuso's appointment was reportedly finalized as early as May 25, but the club only made the official announcement on Tuesday, stating that they have appointed Gennaro Gattuso as Head Coach of the First Team.

n

Lazio expressed confidence in Gattuso's ability to achieve the club's sporting objectives, citing his experience, professionalism, and determination, as they warmly welcomed their new manager.

n

Gattuso is believed to have signed a two-year contract with Lazio, taking over the position left by Maurizio Sarri, who has moved on to manage Atalanta.

n

The change in management could have significant implications for Dele-Bashiru, whose future at the club has been uncertain in recent months, but Gattuso's arrival may offer him a fresh start to establish himself in the squad.

n

Dele-Bashiru's position in the team will likely become clearer during pre-season, as Gattuso assesses his options, and last season, the Nigerian midfielder played 24 times in Serie A, scoring one goal.

n

If Dele-Bashiru remains with Lazio, he will become the second Nigerian international to play under Gattuso in Serie A, following in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, who worked with Gattuso at Napoli between 2020 and 2021.

n

Gattuso's return to club management comes after a brief stint as Italy's national team coach, which ended on April 3, when he resigned after failing to guide the team through the World Cup qualifying play-offs.

n

During his short tenure as Italy coach, which began in June 2025, Gattuso recorded six wins and two defeats before stepping down, and he now faces the task of rebuilding Lazio and returning the club to contention in domestic and European competitions.

n

With Dele-Bashiru among the players looking to make a good impression, Gattuso will aim to restore Lazio's competitive edge in the upcoming season.