Romelu Lukaku has opened up about the difficult period he experienced last season. The 33-year-old Belgian striker admitted that the previous campaign was "the worst year of my life", both personally and professionally.
Lukaku Opens Up After Worst Year of His Life and Hits Back at Italy
Romelu Lukaku says last season was the most difficult of his life, but insists he is fully fit and motivated to succeed with Fenerbahce.
The forward endured an extremely challenging spell at Napoli. An injury kept him out for a significant period, while he also suffered the devastating loss of his father. The two situations affected his performances and contributed to a complicated relationship with the Italian club.
After leaving Napoli this summer and joining Fenerbahce, Lukaku appears determined to start a new chapter. The striker has already made his debut for his new team and insists he is ready to compete at the highest level again.
Following the 1-1 draw against Olympique Lyon in the first leg of the Champions League playoffs, the Belgian international spoke openly about the criticism he received during his time in Italy.
Lukaku particularly rejected claims that he was not physically fit. The striker believes those reports were used to damage his reputation.
"It was the worst year of my life. I heard many things and certain decisions were made. If the situation was like that, the best thing was for me to leave. That I wasn't fit is completely false. They probably said it in Italy to hurt me. I'm 100% and ready to play," Lukaku said.
His main objective now is to rebuild his confidence and enjoy the final years of his career. Joining Fenerbahce represents an opportunity to become an important figure again and compete for trophies in a league he considers highly competitive.
The striker also made it clear that he still has the ambition to remain at the top level. "I need motivation until the end of my career. This is the best thing for me. I want to continue competing at the highest level," he explained.
The possibility of playing in the Champions League is another major incentive. Fenerbahce still have to complete their playoff tie against Lyon, but Lukaku believes the Turkish side can reach the league phase.
After a year marked by injuries, personal difficulties and criticism, the Belgian striker wants to write a new chapter in Turkey. His message is clear: he is fit, motivated and ready to prove that he can still make a difference at the highest level.
