From Man Utd fan to Man City player, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru reveals his admiration for Barcelona

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has shared his admiration for two football’s giants, Barcelona and Manchester United.

Dele-Bashiru was an unused substitute in Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Benin at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Thursday night.

With the result, Nigeria secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament set to take place in Morocco.

Currently, Nigeria leads Group D with eleven points, holding a four-point advantage over Benin, who sit in second place, with one game left in the group stage.

Ahead of the final group match against Rwanda on Monday, in Uyo, Dele-Bashiru will be eager to see playing time and hope to maintain his scoring momentum in front of the home fans.

The Super Eagles midfielder has netted two goals in the previous matches against South Africa and Libya in Uyo.

In an interview with Football Fans Tribe, Dele-Bashiru shared his admiration for both Barcelona and Manchester United.

The Super Eagles midfielder revealed that he only ceased his support for Manchester United after joining their city rivals, Manchester City.

"To be honest, Barcelona and Manchester United," he admitted. "But once I joined Manchester City, I stopped supporting Manchester United."

In the summer transfer window, Dele-Bashiru joined Lazio on a loan deal after an impressive stint with Hatayspor in Turkey.

However, he has faced challenges in adapting to life in Italy and replicating his previous form.

"It's been a bit stop and start," he commented. "But, I think the coach is getting me used to the league, the new surrounding and challenges.

"I think it is helping me improve as a player, everyday in training they are pushing me to be the best I can be. They are trying to get every little thing out of me, which is good for me.

"I think as the season goes on and as I play more games and have more experience it should be good."

Dele-Bashiru also emphasized the areas he wishes to work on, particularly his defensive skills and tactical awareness.

"I think the main thing is my defensive side. My tactical awareness defensively that's one thing I am hoping to improve on this season and if I can do that the future is looking good," he noted.

When discussing his preferred playing position, he stated, "Attacking midfield. Not necessarily the number 10 but for example if you play one holding and two attacking. Then I think that I am most comfortable."

Adeyemi Adewale

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