Romelu Lukaku is struggling on his loan spell at AS Roma from Chelsea. The Blues agreed to the loan with an option to buy as they needed to make room due to numerous signings. AS Roma secured Lukaku after he declined to return to Inter.
At AS Roma, Lukaku has fired14 goals in 24 games till now. While the numbers may seem decent, a closer look reveals Lukaku is struggling. Despite scoring crucial goals, the recent 3-1 loss to AC Milan highlighted that Roma’s style doesn’t complement Lukaku’s strengths. At times, Lukaku appears isolated in the attack, and his partnership with Paulo Dybala has been disrupted by injuries to the Argentine. Lukaku’s move to Roma surprised many who expected him to return to Inter. The Nerazzurri changed their plans, and Lukaku agreed to join Mourinho at Roma.
Lukaku struggling at AS Roma on loan from Chelsea
Lukaku showcased his best under Antonio Conte at Inter during the 2020-21 season in the 3-5-2 formation. Conte’s system relied on Lukaku’s runs and wingers’ assists. However, Roma’s attacking style, although using the same tactical system, differs, expecting more individual brilliance through the middle.
Conte’s Inter was depending too much on Lukaku, but Mourinho seems to be playing him sparingly. In the AC Milan game, Lukaku had only 26 touches and zero shots. This shows the lack of involvement when Roma struggles to keep possession, one of Lukaku’s strengths.
The future for Lukaku at Roma is uncertain, especially with changes expected at the club in the summer. General Manager Tiago Pinto is set to leave in February, and Mourinho’s contract is expiring. While Roma has an option to sign Lukaku permanently, it depends on Mourinho’s decision, which remains unclear. The next six months will determine the fate of both Mourinho and Lukaku, and it’s plausible that they might not continue with Roma next season.
