Romelu Lukaku is one of the most impactful names in world football. With his remarkable physical strength, clinical finishing, and commanding presence that intimidates opposing defenses, the Belgian striker has become a reference in the sport. Born into a humble family in Belgium, Lukaku has built a career filled with highs and lows, historic achievements, and moments of resilience. At 32 years old in September 2025, he remains a key figure for elite clubs and the Belgian national team. This article dives into the journey of a player who, with over 300 goals in professional competitions, inspires generations of young athletes.
Childhood and Early Steps in Football
Romelu Menama Lukaku Bolingoli was born on May 13, 1993, in Antwerp, Belgium. The son of Congolese immigrants, Roger Lukaku and Adolphine Bolingoli, he grew up in a poverty-stricken environment with a deep passion for football. His father, Roger, was a professional footballer in Africa and Europe, directly influencing young Romelu. From an early age, Lukaku showed natural talent for the sport. At six, he was already training on the streets of Antwerp, using makeshift balls and dreaming of following in his father’s footsteps.
The Lukaku family faced financial struggles. After retiring from football, Roger worked as a taxi driver to support his wife and four children. As the eldest, Romelu took on responsibilities early, helping at home while dedicating himself to training. He attended Rupel Boom school, where he began playing organized football. His first club was Rupel Boom, but he soon caught the attention of Lierse, a Belgian second-division team. At eight, Lukaku joined Lierse, impressing coaches with his speed and strength for his age.
In 2004, at 11, came a major leap: Anderlecht, a Belgian football giant, recruited him for their youth academy. At the purple-and-white club, Lukaku found a professional environment. He trained intensely, balancing studies and football. His teammates nicknamed him “Big Rom” due to his 6-foot-3 frame and robust physique. But it wasn’t just strength: Lukaku had game vision and refined technique, honed by watching videos of strikers like Ronaldo Fenômeno and Thierry Henry.
These formative years were crucial. Lukaku faced racial prejudice in some youth matches but used it as motivation. In interviews, he always credits his mother, Adolphine, for her unwavering support. “She took me to every training session, even on crowded buses,” he once recalled. By 16, he was considered a crown jewel of Belgian football, ready for professional ranks.
Debut and Rise at Anderlecht
Lukaku’s professional debut came on November 24, 2009, for Anderlecht against NAC Breda in the Europa League. At 16 years and 194 days, he came off the bench and scored a header, securing a 3-1 victory. It was a magical moment: the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium erupted in applause, and Belgium gained a new hero. That year, Lukaku played 36 matches for the senior team, scoring 15 goals and providing seven assists. His debut season earned him the Belgian Young Player of the Year award.
At Anderlecht, Lukaku formed a lethal partnership with Mbark Boussoufa. Under coaches Ariel Jacobs and later Frank Vercauteren, he learned to handle the pressure of being in the spotlight. In 2010-11, he shone in the Jupiler Pro League, scoring 27 goals in 46 matches. The Belgian league was too small for his talent, and scouts from across Europe watched him closely. Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United sent representatives to his games.
Off the field, Lukaku engaged in community work, donating part of his earnings to support underprivileged kids in Antwerp through sports programs. His loyalty to Anderlecht was clear: despite lucrative offers, he renewed his contract until 2012. But destiny called: in August 2011, at 18, Lukaku signed with Chelsea for €18 million, a record transfer for a Belgian at the time. He left his boyhood club as a star, with 41 goals in 103 matches.
Chelsea Adventure and Premier League Loans
Arriving at Chelsea was a dream for Lukaku, but the Premier League proved challenging. Under Carlo Ancelotti, he struggled for minutes in a star-studded squad featuring Didier Drogba. His debut came against West Bromwich Albion in November 2011, scoring twice in a 2-1 League Cup win. However, with only 10 appearances that season, he realized he needed more playing time.
In 2012, he was loaned to West Brom. Under Steve Clarke, Lukaku exploded, scoring 17 goals in 35 matches, including a hat-trick against Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson. His physicality and ball-holding ability made him indispensable. West Brom finished eighth in the Premier League, and Lukaku earned the nickname “The Beast.”
His success continued with a 2013 loan to Everton under Roberto Martínez. He became the team’s top scorer with 15 goals in 31 matches, forming a fluid partnership with Ross Barkley and Leighton Baines. Everton fans at Goodison Park adored his tenacity. In May 2014, Everton signed him permanently for £28 million. Lukaku had proven his worth: across two Premier League loans, he scored 39 goals in 77 matches.
Consolidation at Everton and Manchester United Move
From 2014 to 2017, Lukaku was the cornerstone of Everton’s attack. Under Martínez and later Ronald Koeman, he scored 87 goals in 166 matches. His best season was 2016-17, with 25 Premier League goals, tying Harry Kane for the golden boot. He became the highest-scoring Belgian in Premier League history, surpassing Christian Benteke. Off the field, Lukaku earned an economics degree from the University of Antwerp, balancing career and education.
In July 2017, he transferred to Manchester United for £75 million—the highest fee for a Belgian. Under José Mourinho, he scored 27 goals in his first season, including a hat-trick against Southampton. However, the following seasons were inconsistent. Under Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Ralf Rangnick, Lukaku battled injuries and criticism over his fitness. In three years, he scored 42 goals in 96 matches. The pressure at Old Trafford led him to seek a change.
Brilliance at Inter Milan and the Italian Dream
In August 2019, Lukaku joined Inter Milan on a €5 million loan. Under Antonio Conte, he found his home. Paired with Lautaro Martínez, he scored 34 goals in 2019-20, helping Inter reach the Europa League final (lost to Sevilla). His strength and vision suited Italian football perfectly.
In 2020, Inter signed him permanently for €80 million. The 2020-21 season was epic: 30 Serie A goals, leading Inter to the Scudetto after 11 years. Lukaku was named the league’s best foreign player. He became a Milan idol, with No. 9 jerseys flying off shelves. In 2021-22, he scored 24 goals, though a Nations League injury sidelined him for the Euro final.
Chelsea Return and Challenges
In June 2022, Lukaku returned to Chelsea for €113 million—one of the most expensive transfers in history. Under Thomas Tuchel, he struggled, scoring only eight Premier League goals and facing criticism from media and fans. A controversial Sky Italia interview, where he expressed missing Inter, worsened matters. In 2022-23, he returned to Inter on loan but lacked his prior spark, scoring 14 goals in 47 matches.
Roma Period and Resurgence
In August 2023, Lukaku was loaned to Roma. Under José Mourinho, he revived, scoring 13 goals in 36 Serie A matches in 2023-24, helping Roma compete for European spots. His partnership with Paulo Dybala was lethal. In 2024-25, he scored 21 goals, cementing his status as one of Italy’s top strikers. Roma fans dubbed him “King Rom.”
New Chapter at Napoli
In June 2025, Lukaku signed with Napoli for four years in a €40 million transfer from Chelsea. Under Giovanni Manna, he joined Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Victor Osimhen (who later left for Al-Ahli). In the first seven matches of the 2025-26 Serie A season, Lukaku scored five goals, helping Napoli lead the league. He adapted quickly to southern Italy, praising Neapolitan cuisine and engaging in local events.
Belgian National Team: Record Goalscorer
Lukaku debuted for Belgium in 2010 at 16 against Croatia. Since then, he’s the nation’s all-time top scorer with 85 goals in 114 matches (as of September 2025). He led Belgium’s “Golden Generation”—with De Bruyne, Hazard, and Courtois—to the 2018 World Cup semifinals (third place) and Euro 2020 quarterfinals. In the 2022 World Cup, he scored four goals, but Belgium fell in the round of 16.
In 2024, under Domenico Tedesco, Lukaku remains vital. In 2026 World Cup qualifiers, he scored eight goals. However, in September 2025, a thigh injury from an August friendly against Italy sidelined him for matches against Liechtenstein and Kazakhstan. Doctors estimate a three-to-four-month recovery without surgery. He’s expected to return in December, ready for the playoffs.
Personal Life and Legacy
Off the pitch, Lukaku is a father of three: Romelu Jr., Yassin, and a newborn daughter. He maintains a private relationship with model Jordan Huyse, the mother of his children. His Lukaku Foundation supports education and sports in African and Belgian communities. He’s a UN ambassador for zero hunger and speaks out against racism in football.
In September 2025, Lukaku faced personal tragedy: the death of his father, Roger, at 58, after a brief illness. In an emotional Instagram post (later deleted), he wrote, “Life will never be the same. My hero is gone.” The news shook fans and teammates, who sent messages of support. Napoli granted him leave to grieve, and Belgium plans a tribute at their next match.
Lukaku’s legacy is one of resilience. From a poor kid to a multimillion-dollar star, he’s overcome criticism, injuries, and failed moves. With over 350 career goals (club and country), he inspires through determination. At 32, he still has the drive for more trophies—perhaps a Champions League or World Cup.
Recent Updates: Injury and Loss
In August 2025, during Napoli’s preseason, Lukaku suffered a thigh muscle tear against Barcelona in a friendly. Exams confirmed a three-month absence, impacting the Serie A start. He watched matches from the stands, motivating teammates. “I’ll come back stronger,” he declared in a press conference.
The loss of his father on September 29 was the hardest blow. Roger, who inspired him from childhood, passed away in Kinshasa, Congo. Lukaku attended the funeral and paused social media, clearing old posts. Teammates like Kvaratskhelia and De Bruyne posted, “Stay strong, brother.” Napoli postponed his training return.
Despite these challenges, Lukaku plans to return in December, aiming for the Serie A title and Belgium’s qualifiers. His story continues to inspire: a giant who falls but always rises.
