Romelu Lukaku Omits Jose Mourinho from His List of Influential Coaches

Romelu Lukaku has revealed that he did not include Jose Mourinho among the four managers who significantly impacted his career, despite playing under him at three different clubs.

The Belgian striker first collaborated with Mourinho at Chelsea, though his initial stint there was not successful, leading to loans at West Brom and Everton. He later signed permanently with Everton, where his performances earned him a £75 million transfer to Manchester United. Despite his success, Lukaku admitted he was hesitant to join United initially, influenced by a phone call from Mourinho, which he later regretted.

In recent years, Mourinho sought to reunite with Lukaku at Roma, persuasively claiming, “We have a good team, but we are missing a champion.” Mourinho has also openly discussed Lukaku’s need for recognition to perform well, yet Lukaku did not include him in his list of four “footballing fathers.”

The striker named Antonio Conte—under whom he secured two Serie A titles with Inter Milan and Napoli—as one of the key figures shaping his career. Lukaku also cited Roberto Martinez, Ronald Koeman, and Ariel Jacobs as influential mentors. He emphasized that he bears no ill will towards Mourinho despite their complicated history, stating, “Jose is a winner. I had him twice, at Manchester United and Roma, but I prefer to focus on the positive. I wish him success as well.”

His admiration for Conte remains strong, describing him as a coach whose football philosophy aligns with Lukaku’s characteristics and offers proper motivation. The player highlighted that Conte’s approach has consistently helped him reach new levels, showing a deep respect for their professional relationship.

Romelu Lukaku chose Conte over Mourinho as a major influence in his career.