When it comes to winning over soccer fans, Romelu Lukaku has undoubtedly faced his fair share of challenges. He’s frequently been tossed as the scapegoat, regardless of the club he’s played for, whether it’s Manchester United, Chelsea, or even Inter Milan, despite their initial success when they won the Scudetto.
Lukaku recently made headlines for allegedly refusing to return to Inter Milan during the previous transfer window. Instead, he chose to join Jose Mourinho’s Roma, where he has been nothing short of spectacular. Now, Romelu Lukaku has revealed that he draws inspiration from NBA superstar LeBron James, hinting at a surprising behind-the-scenes narrative.
Lukaku seeks inspiration from LeBron
Inter Milan felt betrayed when a report about Chelsea’s agreement with Juventus for the transfer of Lukaku broke out in July. The Nerazzurri were expecting the Belgian striker to return for another season-long loan as they finalized the deal structure with Chelsea. However, Romelu Lukaku ultimately joined Jose Mourinho’s Roma on a season-long loan deal.
Amid previous criticisms of his lack of commitment, Romelu Lukaku has revealed plans to emulate the dedication of NBA star LeBron James and focus on playing football rather than the criticisms.
“I just want to make an example of NBA player LeBron James, even though I’m not like LeBron. Bam, bam, bam – that one took a lot of criticism but handled it unflinchingly. I want to adopt that mentality,” Lukaku said.
“I have to wait for the right moment. You all know me. When I speak, I don’t go around the pot. Then I don’t do politics,” he continued. “I know what has been going on behind the scenes, but when I tell my story, I want everyone to listen to my point of view for once, and nothing is taken out of context.
“The time is not yet right for that. We are in a good groove. At Roma, we won the last three matches, and I left with good vibes. For the national team, it is also an important week.”
In his failed move to Inter Milan, Lukaku also said a few words. “I had supposedly told myself I was going to a certain club, but that didn’t make sense. There were also a few clubs I wouldn’t go to. At one point, I was about to explode. When 90 percent of what is said about you is not true, it is hard to keep your mouth shut,” Lukaku added.
Romelu Lukaku on fire for Roma
Romelu Lukaku looks like he has put his rough transfer saga behind him as he continues to be the man in form for Jose Mourinho’s side. Lukaku is no stranger to Serie A. He scored 24 goals in the league in Inter Milan’s title-winning season in 2020/21.
The former Manchester United man has scored seven league goals in eight appearances for Roma this season, making him the club’s top goalscorer in Serie A.
While Lukaku has been on fire in Serie A, Roma are experiencing a mixed season, sitting 10th on the table. Mourinho’s men are already 10 points behind league leaders Milan, who have only lost one game this season.
Can Romelu Lukaku inspire Roma to push for a title challenge this season?
