Rom’ Lukaku’s goal reveals tense situation at Fenerbahçe

Romelu Lukaku (33) sat on the bench for the Red Devils against Turkey, but came on as a substitute and scored the third Belgian goal in a 3‑0 win, a welcome boost in a period where he has recently played hardly at Fenerbahçe.

He put the ball in the net after a cross from Charles De Ketelaere, completing his first goal since the World Cup semi‑final against the USA. After the goal he celebrated with the supporters and made hand gestures towards the stand.

Lukaku later continued in a press conference that he will soon have a talk with the club to discuss the difficult situation. He said: “I will soon have a talk with the club.” He also emphasized that if he can play 100 % at Fenerbahçe, his position in the national team will improve.

Reactions from the staff and analysts

Van Bommel, the national coach, admitted that he doubted starting Lukaku, but stated that the coach’s decision must be respected. He added that Lukaku, if he plays regularly at Fenerbahçe, can indisputably become the first striker.

Toby Alderweireld showed understanding for the bench place, but warned that it has been a long time that Lukaku gets few minutes. “I understand Van Bommel’s choice, but I am also a bit worried,” he said.

Marc Degryse said that Lukaku must first get his minutes at Fenerbahçe before he can focus on the Red Devils. “Thinking that he can gain rhythm here is the opposite world,” Degryse said.