Romelu Lukaku enjoyed a fine first season at Old Trafford, scoring 16 goals in 34 league appearances – Next season he could be their key to dethroning Manchester City.
Lukaku is currently on international duty with Belgium in Russia for their World Cup campaign, with 4 goals to his name already after the group stage. The United striker has transferred his club form to his country seamlessly and seems to be improving with each passing game.
His debut year at Manchester United wasn’t all plain sailing and he received a hefty amount of criticism for his performances in the first half of the season.
But from the turn of the year, he has gone from strength to strength, quickly becoming one of manager Jose Mourinho’s most consistent performers at the club.
Local rivals Manchester City finished an incredible 19 points ahead of United in second as they strolled to the Premier League title with one of the most dominant Title wins of the competitions 26-year history.
However, the emergence of Lukaku as an accomplished all-around centre-forward should give supporters hope of significantly closing the gap on their neighbours this coming season. He is now entirely capable in the role as a focal point for the team, having honed his ball control and dribbling ability which was previously so maligned.
BBC pundit at the World Cup Didier Drogba highlighted the fact his former teammate at Chelsea will only improve further:
"“I’m really scared he will break a lot of records in the Premier League and at this tournament because he’s only 25,”“He’s got room for improvement though. He can improve his runs and his movement and that’s easy to learn.” – Didier Drogba"
The fact that the Belgian striker is already revered as one of the most dangerous strikers in world football, despite not being the finished article yet is frightening.
Under Jose Mourinho’s stewardship, he is refining his technique and growing into a truly world class player, which bodes well for United’s title chances next year.
The Red Devils have been busy already in this summers transfer window, signing Brazilian Midfielder Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk and Full-back Diogo Dalot from Porto.
The former will help provide the service Lukaku needs to thrive and with more signings expected before the end of August, United may have several new players that can do the same.
Eden Hazard summed up his international colleague in the wake of Belgium’s 5-2 triumph over Tunisia, speaking to reporters:
"“It’s easy to play with Lukaku – pass him the ball and he scores every time. He was fantastic.” – Eden Hazard"
Lukaku scored 28 goals in all competitions last year and all signs suggest that the big man is ready to drastically improve on that tally in the 2018/19 season. With Paul Pogba likely to play a more advanced role, the 25-year-old forward could link up to greater effect with the French midfielder, whose passing range is second to none.
Jose Mourinho favoured a 4-3-3 formation for much of last season, with Alexis Sanchez and Lingard usually played either side of Lukaku. However, the Portuguese also played a 4-2-3-1 at times which I believe would be the most effective way of getting the best out of their star striker.
With Fred and Matic fulfilling defensive duties, the likes of Pogba, Sanchez, Lingard, Martial and Rashford would then play in an attacking trio behind Lukaku, providing several different outlets to progress into the final third and feed the former Everton Striker.
When Lukaku is in and around the box he is absolutely deadly, with a ruthless streak and finishing ability that makes him one of the best strikers in England. He is strong, powerful and now pretty nifty on the ball, having worked very hard on improving that side of his game.
Mourinho has lavished praise upon the Belgian at several points during his time in Manchester, saying back in April:
"“When I say to the striker, ‘go there and do the job for me’ he is a sergeant. He is someone you can trust. His attitude is phenomenal.”“It’s not just about the goals he scores; it is about when he brings to the team. That spirit.” – Jose Mourinho"
Manchester United and Mourinho face a huge season next year, one that could well decide the future of the manager and several high profile players.
But if Lukaku is fit and continues to improve at such a rapid rate, he can provide the goals and be the main man for the team as they try to bring major trophies back to Old Trafford once again.
Next: Granit Xhaka will be helped by new Arsenal signing
Do you think next season will be a big one for Romelu Lukaku?