World Cup: Lukaku emerging as a leader of men for Belgium and United

As Romelu Lukaku and Belgium prepare to face France, we can reflect on this tournament as one where he emerged as one of the standout leaders for his team.

Whatever happens in St. Petersburg on Tuesday, Belgium have had a hugely impressive tournament already. They topped their group with convincing performances from both, the starters and the backups.

Next, they saw off a spirited Japanese side, coming back from two goals down. Most impressively of all, they sent Brazil packing, unceremoniously tossing Neymar and his circus to the curb. Before each game in this tournament, Romelu Lukaku has gathered the rest of his teammates in a huddle. He barked instructions and encouragement, passionately gesticulating as his teammates listened, attentively.

Lukaku’s contributions to Belgium’s devastating play cannot be ignored. The braces he netted against Tunisia and Panama. His wherewithal to dummy the ball for Nacer Chadli’s late winner against Japan. His surging run through Brazil’s midfield for the second goal in the quarterfinal.

And his contributions do not just end there.

The on-pitch general

Lukaku played under Roberto Martinez at Everton, and as a result he is well versed in the Spaniard’s coaching style. Due to this, he was able to instruct Kevin de Bruyne and Eden Hazard in the nuances of the tactics that ripped Brazil apart. He is serving as Martinez’s on-pitch general.

Hazard may sport the armband, but Lukaku is more vocal, and when he speaks, Belgium listens. It helps that his play has been spot-on during the tournament.

6 - Romelu Lukaku 🇧🇪 has been involved in 6 goals in his last 6 World Cup 🏆 games (5 goals, 1 assist), after being involved in none in his first 2. Impressive.#WorldCup #BRABEL pic.twitter.com/Dm2dBjQMAw
— OptaJean (@OptaJean) July 6, 2018

More from Manchester United

It was most evident against Brazil. Lukaku targeted the space vacated by the marauding Marcelo, using his pace and power to win any ball over the top. His drifting to the right-wing allowed de Bruyne to float centrally, and wreak havoc. Lukaku and Hazard gave defenders no chance in one-on-one situations, forcing them to deal with either guile or strength, sometimes both at the same time.

All the while, Lukaku was screaming encouragement, geeing up his side, ensuring that they carried out their plan to perfection. When given the chance, he tore into Brazil like a rabid lion, ripping through the heart of the opposing defence.

All of this bodes well for Jose Mourinho and Manchester United. Lukaku was already seen as one of Mourinho’s most trusted players last-season. On the evidence of the World Cup so far, he may just be a future captain of the club.

His willingness to adapt his game, combined with his relatively young age and natural gifts make him an asset to any manager. His leadership skills make him invaluable.

United will be eager to get this hungry, ready version of Lukaku back at the end of the summer. But before then, he has the small matter of a World Cup semi-final to deal with.

Home/World Cup