Romelu Lukaku at AS Roma 2023/24: How the forward can excel under José Mourinho – scout report

Over the last few years, Romelu Lukaku has been somewhat of a polarising figure in mens football. In the last several years, it has been clear that Lukaku has been able to find the form that had slightly evaded him at Manchester United, with Lukaku playing a crucial role in Internazionales Scudetto win in 2020/21, leading the side in goals scored and winning the leagues MVP. After his performances that season, Lukaku would move back to Chelsea for a record fee. 

However, Lukaku would later publicly voice his displeasure over the way he had been utilised by Thomas Tuchel. A year and a half later, after a relatively successful loan spell at Inter, another loan from Chelsea to the Serie A has been completed, with Lukaku signing for Jose Mourinhos Roma. 

This scout report and analysis will examine the key characteristics of Romelu Lukakus style of play, looking at some misconceptions about the player and how he will fit in with Mourinhos tactics. 

Romelu Lukau: A general overview 

An aspect of Lukakus General Radar that stands out is that he is in the 75th percentile of the percentage of aerial duels won but only in the 30th percentile of aerial duels per 90. Although standing at 193 centimetres and having a physically imposing frame over the last four years, managers have resisted the temptation to play long balls to Lukaku regularly, especially at inter. Conte, in particular, looked to develop Lukakus ability to receive the ball at feet with his back to goal, focusing less on developing a system that would require Lukaku to play knockdowns and flick-ons. 

However, as seen by the other metrics on the radar, many more aspects of Lukakus game are incredibly polished. Although he is in the 40th percentile for passes received per 90, Lukaku ranks in the 93rd percentile for progressive passes received per 90 with 8.67. In addition, he ranks in the 77th percentile for dangerous passes per 90, making two key passes a game and 4.33 shot-creating actions per game. In addition, he is comfortably in the 80th percentile for both expected goals per 90 and goal contributions per 90.