'Lukaku fits Napoli better than Osimhen' —  Retired journeyman praises decision to dump Super Eagles star

'Lukaku fits Napoli better than Osimhen' — Retired journeyman praises decision to dump Super Eagles star

Faruq Ibrahim 16:05 - 08.10.2024

Napoli's decision to replace Victor Osimhen with Romelu Lukaku has been praised by a former player of theirs.

Former Napoli striker German Denis has commended the club's decision to ditch Victor Osimhen for Romelu Lukaku, as he believes the big Belgian is a better fit for the Partenopei. 

Napoli swap Osimhen for Lukaku 

The Nigerian ace led the Naples-based club to their first league title in 33 years (when Diego Maradona did it for a second time); a year later, however, his relationship with the club's hierarchy seemingly fractured beyond repair.

The 25-year-old’s desire for greener pastures and the club's stance on making the maximum from his sale seemingly tore a rift between both parties and even after he was unable to secure a move within the transfer window, they stated in clear terms that he would not be returned to the fold. 

Napoli did not sweat Osimhen's exit, as they had an entire season to prepare for it. Plus, new manager Antonio Conte jumped at the opportunity to replace the Nigerian with his favourite striker, Romelu Lukaku. 

It is the Romelu Lukaku show now in Napoli after Osimhen's departure.
It is the Romelu Lukaku show now in Napoli after Osimhen's departure.

What Dennis said 

The Belgian record top scorer has had a brilliant start at the Diego Armando Maradona, scoring three goals and providing four assists in five games. 

Denis, who played for 15 clubs over the course of his 27-year playing career, praised Napoli's decision to swap Osimhen for Lukaku, highlighting the ex-Chelsea star’s playmaking abilities and his resume under Conte. 

“We saw a Lukaku in form, even if Conte knows perfectly well what he lacks. He is a Lukaku who is very generous; he plays for the team; yesterday he made two assists as an attacking midfielder,” Denis said, per Tribal Football

“Napoli was built to win; the squad is large and whoever is called upon always does well and this is important for a coach who knows he can count on the bench. This will make the difference.

“Lukaku in place of Osimhen? I don’t know if Osimhen would have been as suitable for Napoli as Lukaku is with Conte. Napoli made the right choice.”

Meanwhile, Osimhen has also had a bright start to life in Galatasaray, scoring two goals and providing two assists in three games. However, he is currently out injured, but the player recently confirmed that he will return to action immediately after the international break