Romelu Lukaku has candidly admitted that his high-profile return to Chelsea in 2021 was a significant error in judgement, describing the move as a "mistake" that he deeply regrets. The veteran striker, now plying his trade with Napoli, is set to reunite with his former club in a highly anticipated Champions League encounter this week.
Lukaku's Emotional Admission of Transfer Regret
In a revealing interview, the 32-year-old forward expressed profound remorse over his departure from Inter Milan and subsequent £97.5 million transfer to Chelsea, which at the time represented a record-breaking deal for the London club. Lukaku acknowledged that the entire episode should never have unfolded as it did, particularly criticising his own communication with Inter supporters during the controversial exit.
The Italian Love Affair That Never Ended
Lukaku's affection for Italian football remains undiminished, with the Belgian international confessing that he "fell in love with Italy" during his successful spell with Inter Milan between 2019 and 2021. During this period, he secured the Serie A title alongside domestic cup victories, establishing himself as one of Europe's most formidable strikers before Chelsea's substantial financial offer prompted his return to England.
The striker elaborated: "I don't think any of it should have happened the way it did. The way I left Inter and the way I communicated with the Inter fans. I'm annoyed about that because it's not the right time now but it wasn't the right time when I left either."
Apology to Inter Milan Faithful
Lukaku offered a heartfelt apology to Inter supporters, recognising their unwavering support during his tenure at the San Siro. He emphasised the personal connections forged during his time in Milan, noting how the club had positively impacted his family life.
"I want to really apologise to the Inter fans because I don't think I should have left Inter the way I did," Lukaku stated. "I should have spoken to you guys first, especially after everything you did for me, for my family, my mum, my son. I'll never forget that."
Champions League Reunion Amid Injury Concerns
As Chelsea prepare to face Napoli in European competition, Lukaku's participation remains uncertain following an extended period sidelined with a thigh injury. The Belgian forward will likely begin Wednesday's crucial encounter on the substitutes' bench, awaiting his opportunity to make an impact against his former employers.
From Chelsea Disappointment to Napoli Success
Following his difficult second stint at Stamford Bridge, Lukaku returned to Inter Milan on loan for the 2022/23 season before securing a permanent move to current Serie A champions Napoli. The striker has since rediscovered his scoring touch in Italy, contributing to Napoli's domestic success while maintaining his ambition to eventually return to Inter Milan.
Lukaku reflected on his Chelsea experience during a kit launch event, stating plainly: "I left. It was a mistake." He continued: "Now I am happy to be wearing this jersey, the team knows what we need to do, it'll be a great challenge this season and we need to continue like this."
The Enduring Connection to Milan
Remarkably, Lukaku maintained his Milan apartment throughout his Chelsea tenure, anticipating his eventual return to Italian football. This practical decision underscores his emotional attachment to the city and its football culture, which he contrasted with his experience in London.
The striker explained his reasoning: "Milan is a wonderful city and that is why I kept the old apartment when I went to London, because my mother was coming here all the time and I wanted to return too."
Looking Forward to European Showdown
As Wednesday's Champions League fixture approaches, Lukaku finds himself in the unusual position of facing the club that broke transfer records to secure his services just years earlier. The match represents more than just another European encounter for the experienced forward - it serves as a poignant reminder of what might have been had he remained in Italy.
Lukaku's candid reflections provide rare insight into the personal toll of high-profile transfers, highlighting how financial considerations and career ambitions can sometimes lead professional athletes down paths they later regret. As he prepares to face Chelsea from the Napoli bench, the striker's journey serves as a cautionary tale about the complex interplay between professional success and personal fulfilment in modern football.
