‘Life will never be the same’ – Belgian-Congolese striker Romelu Lukaku mourns death of his father

Napoli striker Romelu Lukaku has been plunged into mourning following the death of his father, Roger Menama Lukaku, at the age of 58.

The announcement came the morning after Napoli’s 2-1 defeat to AC Milan in Serie A.

Lukaku, who has Congolese heritage through his late father, shared the heartbreaking news on social media with a photo of the pair walking together.

In an emotional tribute, the Belgian international expressed the depth of his grief.

“Thank you for teaching me everything I know. I’m forever grateful and appreciate you,” he wrote.

“Life will never be the same. Protecting and guiding me like no one else could. I won’t be the same. The pain and tears are flowing big time. But God will give me the strength to get myself back together. Merci pour tout. Roger Menama Lukaku. Vieux Roy… Mon Papa.”

Messages of support quickly poured in from teammates and fellow professionals.

Napoli defender Juan Jesus replied, “Stay strong my brother,” while Dedryck Boyata, Rio Ferdinand, Ian Wright, and Belgian teammate Jeremy Doku also offered their condolences.

The striker’s younger brother, Jordan Lukaku, who most recently played for Adanaspor in the Turkish Super Lig, is also mourning the loss.

Both siblings were guided into professional football by their father, himself a former player in Belgium who provided the foundation for their successful careers.

Roger Lukaku’s influence extended well beyond the pitch, shaping his sons’ character and instilling the discipline that has defined their professional journeys.

Romelu’s tribute made clear how central his father was in his life, both as a mentor and as a parent.