AFCON 2025
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku has opened up on his failed move to Manchester United back in 2017, claiming he never wanted to join the club.
‘Big Rom’ finalised a £75 million transfer from Everton, but has now admitted he had his heart set on returning to Chelsea, where he had previously played, but a phone call from then-United manager Jose Mourinho changed the course of his career.
In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, Lukaku said, “I had already told everyone: I’m going to Chelsea. But suddenly, Mourinho called me to say that Manchester United had made an offer.
“I came back from vacation, and suddenly there was an agreement with Everton. I said to Mino [Raiola, after the move]: ‘I don’t want this’, and then I decided now I’m doing everything myself.”
During his two seasons at Manchester United, Lukaku scored an impressive 42 goals in 96 appearances across all competitions. Despite his initial hesitation, he became a key figure for the Red Devils.
Now revitalized at Napoli, Lukaku led the club to the Serie A title last season and continues to shine as Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer.
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