Former Inter Milan striker Arturo Di Napoli believes Romelu Lukaku is a better fit for Antonio Conte’s Napoli system than Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.
Softfootball reported Napoli have also warned Lukaku of possible consequences after his Belgium decision reportedly sparked tension. The situation has added more attention to the Belgian striker, who remains central to Conte’s plans at the club.
Osimhen joined Galatasaray in the summer after falling out with the Napoli hierarchy, while Lukaku was brought in from Roma to lead the attack under Conte.
Speaking on 1 Football Club, a radio programme broadcast on 1 Station Radio, Di Napoli said Lukaku offers something different from Osimhen because of the way he helps the whole team function.
For Conte’s balance, he is fundamental. It is no coincidence that when the two are on the same team, they perform at their best,
Di Napoli said.
He explained that Lukaku may not score as many goals as Osimhen, but his presence creates space and opportunities for his teammates.
Lukaku is a player who has room, scores goals, and gives others breathing space to score many goals. He is clearly different from Osimhen,
he added.
Di Napoli also stressed that Napoli should focus on what Lukaku brings to the team rather than comparing him directly with Osimhen.
At this moment we need to think about Lukaku, who, compared to Osimhen, is more of a team player,
he said.
According to the former striker, Conte’s team benefits from Lukaku’s link-up play, strength, and ability to bring others into attacking moves.
“He scores fewer goals, but the team scores more,” Di Napoli concluded.
For Napoli, Lukaku’s role under Conte remains important, even as debate continues over whether the club made the right decision in moving on from Osimhen.
