Exclusive: Onazi Credits Baroni for Lazio’s Title Charge And Dele-Bashiru's Form

Former Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi believes the club is well-positioned to challenge Inter Milan and other Serie A giants for the Scudetto this season.

Lazio’s Impressive Start Under Marco Baroni

Lazio has made a strong start to the season under head coach Marco Baroni, earning recognition as serious contenders for the Serie A crown.

The Biancocelesti have amassed 28 points from their first 13 matches, equaling the points total of Inter Milan, Atalanta, and Fiorentina, with only Napoli sitting above them on 29 points.

“Lazio is having an incredible season, and a lot of credit goes to the manager for the great work he’s done so far,” Onazi said in his interview with SportsBoom.co.za. “If they manage to win the title, it would be a massive achievement, especially since it’s been such a long time since their last Scudetto.”

Notable Progress From Last Season

Lazio has shown significant improvement this season, winning 12 of their last 13 games in all competitions. They’ve also earned 11 more points than at this stage last year in Serie A and currently top their Europa League group.

While optimistic about champions qualifications, Onazi believes, it's too early to start thinking about winning both the title and Europa League.

“The season is still long, so it’s too early to dream about winning both Serie A and the Europa League. But if the players stay fit and avoid fatigue, they stand a strong chance of qualifying for the Champions League at the very least,” he added.

Praise for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Onazi also applauded his fellow Nigerian, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, for his impressive form since joining Lazio on loan from Hatayspor.

The 23-year-old midfielder made an immediate impact in Lazio’s 3-0 victory over Bologna, scoring the final goal after coming off the bench in the 85th minute.

“Dele-Bashiru is doing very well,” Onazi said. “When he joined Lazio, I spoke with him and advised him to stay calm and focus on his game.

“It’s great to see the fans have embraced him so quickly. He’s already scored some important goals, and if he keeps performing like this, I believe the club will keep him beyond this season,” he concluded.