Lukaku struggles to impress in his first start for Fenerbahçe

Starting for the first time this season in the colours of Fenerbahçe, Romelu Lukaku did not reassure on Monday evening against Gaziantep, the match ending in a 0‑0 draw and a limited involvement with only 23 touches of the ball in play.

Unconvincing statistics

The Belgian managed only ten successful passes and won only three duels out of nine, a very low percentage of duels won. This performance immediately sparked the first criticisms in Turkey, the tally of three duels won being deemed insufficient for a striker of his stature.

Criticism from the Turkish journalist

The well‑known journalist Emre Bol said: “We do not expect Lukaku to dribble or constantly make runs in behind, but rather that he holds onto the ball and is effective in aerial duels thanks to his imposing physique.” He then added: “Seriously, it’s ridiculous with such a physique. Anyone who comes into contact with him should feel like they are hitting a wall.”

The nickname Rom is sometimes used by supporters to refer to the great striker, but even that nickname is not enough to hide the shortcomings observed in the first half, where Lukaku won only one duel out of seven.

After seven appearances, the Red Devils’ striker has still not found the back of the net in Turkey. His lack of goals and limited presence in the collective play suggest the need for better physical condition, both for Fenerbahçe and for Belgium ahead of the first Nations League matches.

Belgian manager Mark Van Bommel will soon reveal his first squad for the Nations League matches against Italy, France and Turkey. Despite the criticism, the Red Devil should be part of the group, although his role may no longer be as central as it was at the start of his career.