Lukaku Leaves Chelsea Future in the Hands of the Club
London, UK — 6 May
Romelu Lukaku has said he will leave the decision about his future to Chelsea, as speculation continues over where the Belgian international will play next season.
Currently on loan at Everton, the 20-year-old striker has impressed during his time at Goodison Park, scoring 13 goals in 29 Premier League appearances. But with his loan spell nearing its end, attention has turned to whether he will return to Stamford Bridge or move on permanently.
Speaking to Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, Lukaku made it clear that the next step in his career lies in Chelsea’s hands. “I have a contract with Chelsea until 2016, and I think they are happy with the way I am progressing,” he said. “They will have the final say, so we just have to wait and see what they decide.”
Lukaku’s performances have earned him plaudits and sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. A full international for Belgium with 26 caps to his name, the Antwerp-born forward is determined to take another step forward next season. “I want to be the best player in the league,” he declared, referencing his omission from both the PFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year shortlists this season.
Chelsea manager José Mourinho, meanwhile, faces a dilemma in his striker department. Fernando Torres has struggled for form, Demba Ba has shown flashes of resurgence—particularly with a crucial goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League—and veteran Samuel Eto’o has contributed nine goals in 21 appearances.
Despite this array of talent, none have fully convinced the Chelsea boss, who has often turned to winger André Schürrle to lead the line in big matches. Mourinho is widely expected to bolster his attacking options this summer, with Atlético Madrid’s Diego Costa strongly linked to the club.
Whether Lukaku will be part of Mourinho’s plans remains to be seen. The striker was loaned out for a second successive season last summer, having previously impressed during a spell at West Bromwich Albion. While some believe he is ready to challenge for a starting place at Chelsea, others argue that the club’s pursuit of an established world-class forward could once again limit his opportunities.
For now, Lukaku is keeping his focus on the pitch and leaving the speculation to others. “The club knows what I’m capable of,” he said. “I’ve done my part; now it’s up to them.”
With the World Cup fast approaching and Belgium tipped as potential dark horses, Lukaku is also eager to shine on the international stage before any club decision is finalised.
