WATCH: How good was Romelu Lukaku actually?

Romelu Lukaku’s journey from prodigious talent to record-breaking international striker has been shaped by early promise, high-profile transfers, challenges at elite clubs, and consistent goalscoring across Europe’s top leagues.

Lukaku emerged from R.S.C. Anderlecht’s academy as one of Belgium’s brightest prospects, making his senior debut at 16 and finishing as the Belgian Pro League’s top scorer at 17.

His performances earned him a move to Chelsea in 2011, marking the start of a career that would span England, Italy and international football at the highest level.

After limited opportunities at Chelsea, loan spells at West Bromwich Albion and Everton showcased his potential in the Premier League. At Everton, he established himself as one of the league’s most reliable forwards, scoring 87 goals across four seasons in all competitions.

His form led to a transfer to Manchester United in 2017, where he scored 42 goals in two seasons but faced criticism for his inconsistency in major matches.

A move to Inter Milan in 2019 marked a decisive turning point. Under Antonio Conte, Lukaku became the focal point of Inter’s attack, combining physical presence with improved tactical awareness. He scored 64 goals in two seasons, leading Inter to their first Serie A title in 11 years in 2020–21.

His return to Chelsea in 2021 was short-lived, as injuries and off-field issues limited his impact. Subsequent loans to Inter and Roma saw him continue to score regularly, while a 2024 switch to Napoli extended his career in Serie A, where he remains one of the division’s most experienced forwards.

Internationally, Lukaku has been the spearhead of Belgium’s golden generation. Since his debut in 2010, he has become the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing previous records with over 80 international goals.

His performances at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where Belgium finished third, underlined his status as a central figure in the national team’s modern era.

Across a career defined by movement between Europe’s top clubs, Lukaku has continually adapted his game to different systems and expectations. From early scrutiny in England to becoming a title-winner in Italy and Belgium’s most prolific striker, his trajectory reflects resilience, evolution and sustained excellence at the highest level.