Belgian-Congolese star Romelu Lukaku’s agent admits Chelsea return was a costly mistake

Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, has conceded that taking the Belgian forward back to Chelsea was a mistake in hindsight.

The powerful striker, now thriving at Napoli under Antonio Conte, endured a turbulent spell at Stamford Bridge following his high-profile return from Inter Milan in 2021.

Born in Belgium to a Congolese father, Lukaku has often spoken about how his roots shaped his resilience and work ethic.

However, that determination was tested during his second stint with Chelsea, where his struggles for form and fitness contrasted sharply with his previous success in Serie A.

Speaking to AS, Pastorello reflected on the ill-fated transfer and the factors that derailed what was once seen as a dream move.

“In hindsight, probably not,” he said when asked if he would repeat the decision.

“But Romelu was included in the Ballon d’Or shortlist that year, something that had never happened before, and it was a record transfer from the Italian league. It was the right decision at the time.”

The Italian agent explained that unforeseen personal and professional circumstances made it difficult for Lukaku to replicate his Inter Milan form.

“No one could have predicted Lukaku’s difficulties — not so much environmental ones, because he knew the club, but rather in his relationship with the coach,” Pastorello noted.

“He came from an almost father-son relationship with Conte, and that difference in approach affected him, along with the injury he suffered. If it hadn’t been for that, the story would have been different.”

Pastorello also disclosed that a potential move to Real Madrid was briefly considered before the Spanish giants prioritised their pursuit of Kylian Mbappé.

“There was a small chance,” he said, “but in the end, they were focused on Mbappé for the following year.”

Now reunited with Conte at Napoli, Lukaku has rediscovered his rhythm.

“When Antonio called him and asked him to join Napoli, he accepted immediately,” Pastorello added.

“It wasn’t even discussed. It was the best time to work together again, and the results proved him right.”