Super Eagles star Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has set his sights on emulating the legendary Yaya Touré, whom he claims to be his idol after joining Serie A side Lazio on loan.
The 23-year-old midfielder, fresh off a stint with Hatayspor in the Turkish Super Lig, revealed his admiration for the Ivorian icon during his introductory interview with the Biancocelesti, Footballrover reports.
“My idol growing up was Yaya Touré. I’d say I’m a box-to-box midfielder. I like to run, and I like to take shots. I idolised Touré growing up; that’s who I like to play like,” Dele-Bashiru declared.
This admiration goes beyond mere fandom. Dele-Bashiru sees a clear connection between his own playing style and Touré’s dominance on the pitch.
The Nigerian midfielder, known for his energy and attacking prowess, aspires to replicate Touré’s well-rounded skillset, which included both defensive solidity and a knack for scoring goals.
????️ Le prime parole di Fisayo Dele-Bashiru da calciatore biancoceleste
➡️ https://t.co/llgXM9eye7#AvantiLazio ???? pic.twitter.com/asRCZXXfkq
— S.S.Lazio (@OfficialSSLazio) July 9, 2024
While Touré’s reign as one of Europe’s finest midfielders during his Manchester City years serves as a major inspiration, Dele-Bashiru is also looking forward to the challenges Serie A presents.
The league’s emphasis on tactical awareness and faster playing style aligns with his skillset, and he believes it will be a breeding ground for his development.
“With the tempo of the game and tactical awareness, this is a league where I can grow as a player,” Dele-Bashiru remarked, brimming with excitement for the upcoming season.
In the same interview, Dele-Bashiru took the opportunity to clear up a misconception regarding his birthplace.
“I was born in Lagos, Nigeria,” he emphasised, dispelling rumours that placed his origins in Hamburg, Germany.
A product of the Manchester City Academy, Dele-Bashiru’s admiration for Touré, a four-time African Player of the Year who enjoyed a successful spell with the Citizens, comes as no surprise.
Now, as he embarks on a new chapter in Italy, Dele-Bashiru will be aiming to channel his inner Touré and carve his own path to success in Serie A.
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