Romelu Lukaku: Victor Osimhen’s Replacement Scores on Napoli Debut, Days After Chelsea Transfer

Romelu Lukaku: Victor Osimhen’s Replacement Scores on Napoli Debut, Days After Chelsea Transfer

  • Romelu Lukaku made a splash on his debut for Napoli, scoring late to guide them to a dramatic comeback win
  • The Belgian, who joined Napoli from Chelsea, was at the centre of a protracted deal all summer
  • Upon his arrival, the 31-year-old was rumoured to take Victor Osimhen's No.9 shirt, but he chose No.11 instead

Romelu Lukaku made an impactful debut for Napoli, scoring a stoppage-time goal to help his new club overturn a deficit and secure a dramatic win against Parma.

The Belgian striker, who joined Napoli in a highly anticipated transfer, wasted no time in making his presence felt on the pitch during Saturday night's clash.

Romelu Lukaku netted a late equaliser before Napoli went on to secure a hard-fought come-from-behind win.
Romelu Lukaku wheels away in celebration after scoring on his debut for Napoli. Photo by NurPhoto.
Source: Getty Images

Lukaku finally leaves Chelsea for Napoli

Lukaku's move to Napoli came after a lengthy transfer saga, leaving Chelsea for the Partenopei in one of the summer's most talked-about deals.

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According to the BBC, the transfer was largely orchestrated by Napoli's manager, Antonio Conte, who previously coached Lukaku during two highly successful seasons at Inter Milan.

Under Conte's guidance, Lukaku thrived, netting 24 goals in Serie A during the 2020-21 season, a key factor in Inter's title-winning campaign.

This prolific form was what initially prompted Chelsea to bring him back to Stamford Bridge for a hefty £97.5 million fee.

However, Lukaku's second spell at Chelsea was marked by loan stints, first back at Inter and then at Roma, before he returned to Italy with Napoli.

Lukaku scores on Napoli debut

Eager to prove himself once more in Serie A, the 31-year-old came off the bench and immediately made an impact, helping Napoli secure their second consecutive victory after a shaky start to the season.

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Victor Osimhen: reasons striker’s proposed move to Chelsea collapsed

According to Football Italia, his decisive goal in the second minute of stoppage time set the stage for a complete turnaround, as Cameroonian midfielder Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa added another goal shortly afterwards to seal the comeback win.

What's next for Lukaku?

As the international break approaches, Lukaku will look to carry this momentum into his duties with the Belgian national team, with crucial UEFA Nations League fixtures against Belgium and France on the horizon.

Napoli fans greet Lukaku with warm reception

YEN.com.gh earlier reported that the warm reception from Napoli fans touched Romelu Lukaku as he arrived at Villa Stuart for his medical tests with the Partenopei.

As Lukaku reached the private clinic, he was met by a crowd of excited supporters eager to take selfies with their new striker.

In a heartwarming moment, Lukaku helped a fan who had accidentally fallen, lifting him back to his feet before heading inside.

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Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe avatar

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a sports journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes roles as a Presenter at VNTV, Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: godwin.tagoe@yen.com.gh.